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Acronymsaka: Critical Path Methodaka: critical path scheduling

CPM (Critical Path Method)

In Plain English

A scheduling method that identifies which project tasks, if delayed, will push back the project completion date.

Definition

The Critical Path Method is a project scheduling technique that identifies the longest sequence of dependent activities—the critical path—that determines the minimum project duration. Activities on the critical path have zero float, meaning any delay in those activities directly delays the project completion date. CPM scheduling is required on most large public and private construction projects and is the standard method used by courts and scheduling experts to analyze delay claims.

Example

The CPM schedule shows that structural steel erection is on the critical path; a two-week steel delivery delay will push the project completion date back by two weeks.

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