Critical Path Method Schedule Examples

Explore diverse examples of Critical Path Method schedules to enhance your project management skills.
By Jamie

Understanding the Critical Path Method (CPM)

The Critical Path Method (CPM) is a project management technique used to determine the sequence of tasks that will affect the project’s duration. By identifying the longest stretch of dependent activities, project managers can ensure that they allocate resources effectively and minimize delays. Below are three practical examples of Critical Path Method schedules that can help you visualize and implement this method in your projects.

Example 1: Website Development Project Schedule

In a website development project, understanding which tasks are crucial for timely launch is essential. This example outlines the tasks required to complete the project.

  1. Requirements Gathering (5 days)
  2. Design Mockups (7 days)
  3. Development (15 days)
  4. Testing (10 days)
  5. Deployment (3 days)

  • Task Dependencies:

    • Design Mockups cannot start until Requirements Gathering is complete.
    • Development cannot begin until Design Mockups are approved.
    • Testing can only start after Development is finished.
    • Deployment occurs after Testing.

  • Critical Path:

    • Requirements Gathering → Design Mockups → Development → Testing → Deployment

  • Total Project Duration: 40 days

Notes: This schedule can vary based on team size and project complexity, and additional buffer time can be included to account for unforeseen delays.

Example 2: Construction Project Schedule

In a construction project, the CPM can be invaluable for tracking progress and ensuring timely completion. This example focuses on building a residential home.

  1. Site Preparation (10 days)
  2. Foundation Work (15 days)
  3. Framing (20 days)
  4. Electrical & Plumbing (15 days)
  5. Interior Finishing (30 days)
  6. Final Inspection (5 days)

  • Task Dependencies:

    • Foundation Work starts after Site Preparation.
    • Framing follows Foundation Work.
    • Electrical & Plumbing can only commence after Framing.
    • Interior Finishing occurs after Electrical & Plumbing is complete.
    • Final Inspection is completed after Interior Finishing.

  • Critical Path:

    • Site Preparation → Foundation Work → Framing → Electrical & Plumbing → Interior Finishing → Final Inspection

  • Total Project Duration: 95 days

Notes: Weather conditions can impact the schedule, so it’s advisable to include contingency plans.

Example 3: Software Development Project Schedule

In a software development project, applying the CPM can lead to more efficient timelines and resource allocation. The following example outlines the process of developing a mobile application.

  1. Requirement Analysis (4 days)
  2. UI/UX Design (8 days)
  3. Backend Development (12 days)
  4. Frontend Development (10 days)
  5. Quality Assurance (6 days)
  6. Launch (2 days)

  • Task Dependencies:

    • UI/UX Design cannot start until Requirement Analysis is completed.
    • Backend Development is a prerequisite for Frontend Development.
    • Quality Assurance follows both Backend and Frontend Development.
    • Launch occurs after Quality Assurance is finalized.

  • Critical Path:

    • Requirement Analysis → UI/UX Design → Backend Development → Frontend Development → Quality Assurance → Launch

  • Total Project Duration: 42 days

Notes: This schedule can be adjusted based on team capacity and the complexity of features being developed.