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Schedulingaka: CPaka: longest path

Critical Path

In Plain English

The longest chain of tasks in a project schedule where any delay will push back the completion date.

Definition

The critical path is the longest sequence of logically linked activities in a project network whose total duration determines the project's earliest possible completion date. Activities on the critical path have zero total float, meaning any delay to a critical path activity directly delays the project completion date. Identifying and managing critical path activities is the primary focus of construction schedule management.

Example

Steel erection, concrete topping, and exterior curtain wall were identified as critical path activities on the five-story office building.

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