International Project Management Association (IPMA) Practice Exam

Which scheduling technique is most effective for projects with many variable activity durations?

1. Critical Path Method

2. Flowchart Analysis

3. Ishikawa Diagramming

4. Program Evaluation and Review Technique

The correct answer is: Program Evaluation and Review Technique

The Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) is particularly effective for projects with many variable activity durations because it is specifically designed to handle uncertainty in project scheduling. PERT utilizes probabilistic time estimates for each activity, allowing for a more flexible approach in managing tasks that are not easily predictable. Instead of using a single time estimate, PERT requires three estimates: optimistic, pessimistic, and most likely durations. This approach provides a more comprehensive view of potential timelines and helps project managers prepare for various scenarios. In contrast, the Critical Path Method (CPM) relies on fixed durations, making it less suitable for projects characterized by significant variability. While it effectively identifies the longest path through a project and helps in scheduling activities based on their dependencies and fixed durations, it does not account for uncertainty as effectively as PERT. Flowchart Analysis is valuable for visualizing processes and workflows but does not provide the intricate analysis of time variability regarding project activities. It is more focused on the representation of the steps involved rather than the scheduling complexities. Ishikawa Diagramming, or Fishbone Diagramming, is a tool used for identifying and analyzing root causes of issues but does not pertain to scheduling activities or their durations. Thus, given the focus on managing variable activity