Understanding the critical path helps you focus attention and defend time extensions.
In this article
Why the critical path matters
The critical path method, or CPM, identifies the sequence of tasks that determines the project's finish date. A delay on the critical path delays the whole job. Understanding it helps you focus attention, defend time extensions and keep owners informed.
The basics
List the activities, their durations and what must finish before each one starts. The longest chain of dependent activities is the critical path.
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Float
Activities not on the critical path have float, time they can slip without delaying the finish.
Good logic
Each activity should have a logical predecessor and successor. Missing links make the schedule unreliable.
Software
Scheduling software calculates the critical path automatically, but the quality depends on your inputs.
Update regularly
Update progress weekly or as required by the contract. An old schedule is useless.
Delays and extensions
Showing that a delay affected the critical path supports requests for time extensions.
Connect to look-ahead plans
The master schedule guides short-term look-ahead plans used in the field.
Communicate with owners
Show the critical path in simple terms so owners understand why decisions matter.
Contract requirements
Many contracts specify schedule format and update frequency. Read them.
Common mistakes
Too many constraints, unrealistic durations and schedules that are never updated.
An example
Window delivery slips two weeks. The updated schedule shows windows are on the critical path because drywall can't start until the building is dried in. The PM documents the delay, notifies the owner and resequences interior work on the floors that are already closed.
Where to start
On your next project, build a simple schedule with logic links for the main phases and identify the critical path with your team. Review it weekly in the OAC meeting so everyone understands which activities can't slip.
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Frequently asked questions
What is float in a construction schedule?
Float is the time an activity can slip without delaying the project's finish date. Activities on the critical path have no float.