PMI CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) Examination Content OutlinePredictive, Plan-Based MethodologiesMedium
A project manager is developing the project schedule for a new product launch. The team has identified several activities that can be performed in parallel to shorten the overall project duration, but doing so would require assigning additional resources and potentially increase project costs. Which schedule compression technique is the project manager considering?
- AResource Leveling
- BCrashing
- CFast Tracking
- DSchedule Baseline Adjustment
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Fast Tracking
Fast tracking is a schedule compression technique where activities or phases normally performed in sequence are performed in parallel, or at least partially in parallel. This often increases risk and may result in rework.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Resource leveling is a technique to optimize resource allocation, not primarily for schedule compression.
- B. Crashing involves adding resources to shorten duration, typically at increased cost and risk, but not necessarily by changing sequence.
- D. Schedule baseline adjustment is a formal change to the approved schedule, not a technique for compression itself.
Fast Tracking
A schedule compression technique that involves performing activities or phases in parallel that would normally be performed sequentially. This can shorten the project duration but often increases risk and may result in rework.
- Changes sequential activities to parallel.
- Shortens project duration.
- Increases risk and potential for rework.
Memory trick: Fast Track parallel, Crash with more resources.