4.6 Control Schedule - 4.6 Control Schedule
Control Schedule is a critical process in Project Time Management that involves monitoring the status of the project schedule to update the project progress and manage changes to the schedule baseline. This process ensures that the project stays on track and meets its deadlines.
Key Concepts
1. Schedule Baseline
The Schedule Baseline is the approved version of the project schedule, including the start and end dates of project activities. It serves as a reference point for measuring performance and managing changes. Any deviations from the schedule baseline must be carefully monitored and controlled.
Example: In a construction project, the schedule baseline might include the planned start and end dates for each phase, such as site preparation, foundation laying, and building construction. Any delays in these phases would be tracked against this baseline.
2. Schedule Performance Measurement
Schedule Performance Measurement involves tracking the actual progress of the project against the planned schedule. This includes calculating schedule performance indices (SPI) and schedule variance (SV) to assess how well the project is progressing. These metrics help identify whether the project is ahead of, on, or behind schedule.
Example: For a software development project, if the planned schedule indicates that 50% of coding should be completed by a certain date, but only 40% is actually completed, the schedule variance would be negative, indicating a delay.
3. Schedule Forecasting
Schedule Forecasting involves predicting the future performance of the project based on current and historical data. This includes estimating the project's completion date and identifying potential risks that could impact the schedule. Forecasting helps in making informed decisions to keep the project on track.
Example: In an engineering project, if a critical component is delayed, schedule forecasting might predict that the overall project completion date will be pushed back by two weeks. This information can be used to adjust the project plan and allocate additional resources to mitigate the delay.
4. Performance Reviews
Performance Reviews are periodic assessments of the project's progress against the schedule baseline. These reviews involve comparing the actual performance with the planned performance, identifying variances, and analyzing the causes of any deviations. Performance reviews help in taking corrective actions to bring the project back on schedule.
Example: For a manufacturing project, a performance review might reveal that the production rate is lower than expected due to machine breakdowns. The review would identify this as a variance and recommend corrective actions, such as scheduling maintenance or acquiring additional machines.
5. Change Requests
Change Requests are formal proposals to modify any aspect of the project schedule, including the start and end dates of activities, resource allocation, or the sequence of tasks. These requests must be documented, evaluated, and approved through a formal change control process to ensure that changes do not adversely affect the project.
Example: In a project to build a new facility, a change request might be submitted to extend the deadline for the completion of the interior design phase. This request would need to be evaluated for its impact on the overall project timeline and budget before approval.
6. Corrective Actions
Corrective Actions are measures taken to address any variances or deviations from the schedule baseline. These actions aim to bring the project back on track and ensure that it meets its deadlines. Corrective actions can include reallocating resources, adjusting the schedule, or implementing process improvements.
Example: If a construction project is behind schedule due to delays in material delivery, corrective actions might include expediting the delivery process, reallocating workers to different tasks, or adjusting the project timeline to accommodate the delay.