PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) and CPM (Critical Path Method) are both project management tools used to plan, schedule, and control complex projects. While they share similarities, they have distinct differences in approach and application.
PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique):
Nature: PERT is a probabilistic tool used primarily for planning and scheduling uncertain activities. It is used when activity durations are uncertain and need to be estimated using probabilistic methods.
Focus: PERT focuses on time estimation and is used to analyze the time required to complete each task and identify the minimum time needed to complete the entire project.
Activity Duration: In PERT, three time estimates are provided for each activity: optimistic, pessimistic, and most likely. These estimates help in calculating the expected duration of activities.
Application: PERT is commonly used in research and development projects, where the activities are not repetitive, and the time required to complete them is uncertain.
Critical Path: PERT identifies the critical path based on the probabilistic analysis of activity durations. The critical path is the sequence of activities that determines the project's shortest possible duration.
CPM (Critical Path Method) :
Focus: CPM focuses on optimizing time and resources, using fixed time estimates for each activity. It is used for projects where activity durations are predictable and known.
Activity Duration: In CPM, each activity has a fixed duration, and the project schedule is based on these deterministic time estimates.
Application: CPM is commonly used in construction and manufacturing projects, where activities are repetitive and durations are more predictable.
Critical Path: CPM determines the critical path by identifying the longest path through the project network diagram, which dictates the shortest time possible to complete the project. Activities on the critical path cannot be delayed without affecting the overall project duration.
Key Differences Between PERT and CPM:
Time Estimates: PERT uses probabilistic time estimates (optimistic, pessimistic, and most likely), while CPM uses deterministic time estimates.
Application Focus: PERT is more suited for research and development projects with uncertain durations, while CPM is used for projects with predictable durations and a focus on time optimization.
Approach: PERT emphasizes time analysis and uncertainty, whereas CPM emphasizes cost control and resource optimization.
Network Diagram: PERT and CPM both use network diagrams, but PERT diagrams often include probabilistic paths, while CPM diagrams are more focused on deterministic scheduling.
These tools help project managers in planning, scheduling, and controlling projects by providing insights into project timelines, resource allocation, and potential risks.
Subscribe on YouTube - NotesWorld
For PDF copy of Solved Assignment
Any University Assignment Solution
.webp)
