a. What is detailed and cumulative scheduling? State the scheduling guidelines.
Detailed scheduling is a scheduling technique that breaks down a project into smaller tasks, assigning specific dates and resources to each task. It involves creating a detailed timeline for each individual task, taking into account dependencies and resource availability.
Cumulative scheduling, on the other hand, focuses on the overall project schedule rather than the individual tasks. It looks at the cumulative impact of all tasks and resources on the project timeline. It considers the critical path, resource constraints, and overall project objectives to create a schedule that optimizes the project's completion time.
Scheduling guidelines for detailed and cumulative scheduling may include:
1. Task Breakdown: Break the project into smaller, manageable tasks to determine their sequence and dependencies.
2. Task Duration Estimation: Estimate the time required to complete each task accurately. Consider past experience, expert opinions, and historical data to determine task durations.
3. Task Dependencies: Identify the dependencies between tasks to determine their sequence and ensure that dependent tasks are scheduled accordingly.
4. Resource Allocation: Determine the availability and allocation of resources required for each task. Consider factors like workforce, equipment, and materials required for scheduling.
5. Critical Path Analysis: Identify the critical path, which represents the sequence of tasks that determine the project's overall duration. Tasks on the critical path should be closely monitored to avoid delays in project completion.
6. Resource Constraints: Consider any resource limitations or constraints that might affect task scheduling. Ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively to minimize bottlenecks.
7. Milestones: Identify key milestones or checkpoints throughout the project to track progress and evaluate if the project is on schedule.
8. Risk Assessment: Anticipate potential risks and uncertainties that might affect the project schedule. Mitigate risks through contingency planning and factoring potential delays into the schedule.
9. Communication and Collaboration: Ensure effective communication and collaboration among project stakeholders to keep everyone informed and aligned with the project schedule.
10. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor the project schedule and update it regularly as new information becomes available or changes occur. Maintain flexibility to adjust the schedule when necessary to maintain project timelines.