Difference Between PERT and CPM
Introduction
A project is a series of interconnected actions with a clear beginning and end point that result in a distinct product. That implies projects aren't the same every time. If you work in civil engineering or construction, you've probably heard of PERT and CPM. PERT and CPM are required knowledge for project planning and control as well. They are now commonly utilized in major development projects for project planning and control. As a result, this article will provide you with a thorough understanding of PERT and CPM.
PERT
PERT stands for Program Project Evaluation and Review Technique, and it describes how to plan, schedule, organize, coordinate, and regulate unpredictable operations. The approach examines and depicts the tasks necessary to finish a project in order to determine the shortest time to perform each job and the shortest time to complete the whole project. In the late 1950s, it was created. Its goal is to cut the project's time and expense in half.
The initiative is divided into events and activities in PERT. The network is constructed when an appropriate sequence has been discovered. The time for each job is then computed, and a route is established.
The PERT approach, in particular, is useful when dealing with unexpected activities in a project since it compensates for potential uncertainties. This is accomplished by managing the risks in such a way that the project's timeline is not impacted.
PERT makes use of time as a variable to indicate the anticipated resource application as well as performance requirements. First and foremost, the project is separated into activities and events using this method. Following that, the correct sequence is determined, and a network is built. The critical route (the longest path linking all the events) is then found by calculating the time required for each activity.
CPM (Critical Path Method)
The Critical Path Method (CPM), which was established in the 1950s, is an algorithm for project planning, organizing, scheduling, coordinating, and regulating. It is assumed that the activity time is provided and fixed in this approach. It determines the earliest and latest start times for each activity.
To save time and eliminate queue building in the process, the process distinguishes between critical and non-critical tasks. The rationale for identifying important tasks is that if any one of them is delayed, the whole process would suffer. As a result, it's known as the Critical Path Method (CPM).
The CPM approach is highly recommended for projects with predictable activity, such as home building. The method determines the earliest and latest probable start dates for each project activity.
In this technique, a list of all the activities necessary to accomplish a project is first created, followed by the calculation of the time required to perform each activity. The dependencies between the activities are then determined. A 'path' in this context is defined as a series of actions in a network. The essential route is the one that is the longest.
Key Difference Between PERT and CPM
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CPM |
- PERT is a probabilistic model with activity duration uncertainty. t0, tp, and tm are used to compute the duration of an activity.
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- CPM is a deterministic model with a known period of activity.
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- It's a method based on events.
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- It's a method that focuses on doing things.
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- Network diagram, event, and slack are all terms used in PERT language.
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- Words like arrow diagram, nodes, and float are used in CPM terminology.
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- Network diagram, event, and slack are all terms used in PERT language.
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- Words like arrow diagram, nodes, and float are used in CPM terminology.
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- The usage of dummy activities is essential in order to show accurate sequencing.
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- There is no need for a fake activity.
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- PERT doesn't make a distinction between critical and non-critical operations.
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- The critical activities are denoted by CPM.
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- In projects where resources are constantly accessible, PERT is used.
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- CPM is used in projects when the total cost is the most important factor.
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- PERT is useful in defense projects and R&D when activity time is unpredictable.
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- Suitable for plant maintenance, civil building projects, and other situations where the length of the operation is known.
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Related Questions
1). What is the most significant difference between PERT and CPM charts?
The primary distinction between PERT and CPM is that PERT emphasizes time management and planning to complete the project as soon as feasible. CPM emphasizes timing and budgeting, which helps complete the project on schedule and under budget.
2). Where are PERT and CPM used?
PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) was first used to construct submarines with Polaris missile launchers. The yearly maintenance tasks at an oil and chemical refinery were managed using CPM (the Critical Path Method).
3). What is the purpose of PERT and CPM?
A project management planning method called the Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) estimates how long it will take to complete a project. Project tasks are planned using PERT charts, which makes it simpler to organize and manage team members.
The yearly maintenance tasks at an oil and chemical refinery were managed using CPM (the Critical Path Method).
4). What are the advantages of PERT and CPM?
PERT charts don't need to reflect your project's accurate dates since they are often used before a project starts to plan and estimate how long each activity will take. Additionally, they better demonstrate whether particular activities must be carried out in a specific sequence or if they may be completed concurrently.
Project managers may rely on the critical route technique when planning their time and resource allocation. The benefits of CPM include increased scheduling flexibility and accuracy, more significant stakeholder and project management communication, and simpler work prioritization.
