How does dependency determination impact critical path calculations

Question

I know that determining task dependencies is critical for accurate critical path calculations, but it can get complicated. How does dependency determination impact the overall project timeline?

Answer 1

Dependencies specify task relationships, and faults in establishing them can disrupt the entire timetable. Key impacts include:

• Impacts Critical Path Calculation - Incorrect dependencies can misidentify which tasks are crucial, leading to erroneous assumptions about project limits.

• Can Cause Unnecessary Delays - If dependencies are too strict, tasks may be postponed instead of running simultaneously.

• Improves Resource Allocation - Clear dependencies ensure that resources are available at the appropriate time, avoiding idle periods or overloading.

• Identifies Risks Early - Understanding dependencies helps identify where delays are most probable, enabling proactive mitigation.

• Improves Schedule Adjustments - When unexpected changes occur, well-defined dependencies assist in rescheduling work without substantial interruptions.

Accurate dependency determination guarantees that the schedule represents real-world limitations, which improves planning reliability.