Project activity sequencing consists of the methods and tools used to set the stage for the most efficient and trouble-free project plan. Project activity sequencing has several outputs, including the project network diagram and activity lists.
The project network diagram
One output that results from activity sequencing is the project network diagram. This diagram may be produced manually or on a computer.
The project network diagram includes full project details, including clear, concise, self-explanatory names for all project activities.
Full project details include "hammock activities" as well. For example, an auto parts manufacturer inspects all the parts it produces. Rather than repeat the inspect activity in the project network diagram, the manufacturing company rolls all inspection into a single summary or hammock activity.
Overall start and finish dates are then associated with the single hammock activity. One or more summary or hammock activities often make up part of full project details.
The project network diagram includes a summary narrative. The summary narrative outlines the basic activity sequencing approach used in the network. The summary narrative provides details about the use of dependencies, sequencing assumptions and leads and lags.
The summary narrative outlines how dependencies are included in the project, how outside dependencies will be handled, and which dependencies are mandatory or optional.
The summary narrative also includes assumptions about sequencing. It may be assumed, for example, that testing can start after 25 percent of development has taken place.
In addition to assumption, the summary narrative outlines how leads and lags will be handled. In a finish-to-start relationship, an activity with a lead of five days may start five days before its predecessor has finished. An activity with a lag of five days cannot start until five days after its predecessor activity has finished.
Finally, the project network diagram contains a description of unusual sequencing. Unusual sequences occur in a network to allow for things like client preferences or specific resource availability. For example, in setting up a computer network, it may seem logical to configure the servers before configuring the workstations. The customer, however, may stipulate that employees are to begin training and work on their workstations immediately. As a result, the configure workstations activity takes place in the project network diagram before the configure servers activity.
Activity list updates
The second output from activity sequencing is activity list updates. Network diagram preparation may reveal instances where an activity must be divided or redefined in order to diagram the correct relationships.
As an example, consider the initial activity list for installing a computer network. Attempts to construct a network for this project reveal that there is overlap between the build and test activities. Computer tower components must be tested at intermediary intervals.
If the build and test activities have been defined at too high a level, the sequencing diagram may not show this overlap. The solution is to break the build and test activities down into their component parts, and indicate their dependencies on other activities. Based on this, a new project network diagram can be constructed.
The outputs from activity sequencing are the project network diagram and the activity list. These two outputs are important components in the creation of the project schedule. The project network diagram reflects project activities and their dependencies. After initially diagramming the network, the activity list may remain the same or change based on the diagram.
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Tag: PM206A55. Let me share all of you about #5 Tips for Project Management Success,, I hope you enjoy it
1. Plan your day using time management techniques
As a project manager, time management skills are essential because you are dealing with a wide range of tasks that demand a quick turnaround time. Planning your day will go a long way in keeping you organized and increasing your productivity. Assist your task planning by using project management software which helps you track the work of you and your team.
If you are not very tech savvy, a simple to-do list can also be a great organizational tool. Prioritize your most important tasks by putting them at the top of the list and less important ones at the bottom. Having a visual plan of your daily tasks helps to keep you on track and aware of time.
Related post: Free ebook 104 secrets to become a great project manager
2. Include stakeholders in important project conversations
While you will have plenty of responsibilities regarding the project, don’t neglect your clients.
Good communication is essential is keeping both parties informed of project progression, curtailing scope creep, and apprised of changing requirements. Some clients may have different expectations when it comes to communication, so make sure to establish the frequency and type of communication (like emails, phone calls, and face-to-face conversations) at the beginning of your project.
Establishing communication expectations early helps alleviate stakeholder uncertainty about communication frequency and delivery.
3. Regularly communicate with your team
Daily team communication helps keep misunderstandings and unclear requirements under control. Keeping your team informed in every step of the project is essential to project management success.
For example, a study published by Procedia Technology found that good communication skills were the cornerstone of project management. The study examined over 300 “construction project managers, architects, construction managers, engineers and quantity surveyors” and their successes and failures on various construction projects.
4. Anticipate project setbacks
Even the best-laid plans often go awry.
Remember that even with a high amount of planning and attention to detail, your project may still encounter some challenges. Pay attention to complaints from stakeholders or colleagues, and other warning signs, like a missed deadline or cost overrun, that there may be a problem.
Preventing a crisis will keep your project running smoothly, save you a lot of time, and keep you, your team, and your stakeholders confident in progressing with the project.
Unfortunately not every complication can be avoided. Crisis management skills are essential for dealing with the unexpected. Project managers need to be flexible and pragmatic. Improvise and make sharp decisions when needed.
Related post: 92 free project management templates
5. Stay focused on the details
A common problem project managers encounter is having the project aims not aligned with the organization’s objectives. A great project manager will strategize a plan for the project to lead back to the overall success of the business.
Know your project’s scope by heart and avoid wandering outside of the project’s requirements. It’s too easy to get lost in minor details and forget what your focus is, so a well-planned project scope is essential for success.
And final, you should use KPI to measure effectiveness of the project, here are full list: 76 project management KPIs
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