Scheduling Approaches and Methods in Project Management

PMBOK v8 Definition

Scheduling approaches and methods refer to the different techniques used to develop project schedules, with the choice depending on industry type, project characteristics, and environmental demands. According to PMBOK v8, approaches for scheduling include the critical path method, critical chain method, location-based scheduling, Last Planner System®, Gantt charts, and Kanban. These methods are part of the Schedule Management knowledge area within the Planning process group.

Why It Matters for the Exam

This topic appears frequently in PMI exam questions testing your ability to select the appropriate scheduling method for different project contexts. Questions often present a project scenario and ask which scheduling approach is most suitable, or require you to distinguish between similar methods like critical path and critical chain.

Key Points to Remember (for the exam)

• Critical Path Method (CPM): Focuses on calculating the longest path of dependent activities to determine the shortest project duration; uses float/slack analysis
• Critical Chain Method (CCM): Focuses on resource constraints and buffers (project buffer, feeding buffers) to protect the schedule from uncertainty
• Location-Based Scheduling (LBS): Used primarily in construction and repetitive projects; tracks work continuity across physical locations
• Last Planner System®: A collaborative planning method used in lean construction; focuses on reliable task completion through commitment-based planning
• Gantt Charts: Visual bar charts showing task durations and dependencies; useful for communication but limited for complex analysis
• Kanban: A visual scheduling method using cards/boards to limit work in progress and manage flow; common in agile environments
• Common Confusion: Confusing CPM (focus on task dependencies and float) with CCM (focus on resource constraints and buffers)

Typical PMI Exam Example

A construction project involves building 20 identical houses across a development area. The project manager needs a scheduling method that ensures continuous work for each trade (e.g., electricians move from house 1 to house 2 without gaps). Which scheduling approach is most appropriate? → Location-Based Scheduling (LBS)

PMI Exam Traps

• Trap: Assuming critical path method is always the best choice
  • Reality: The choice depends on project type, industry, and environmental demands; CCM may be better for resource-constrained projects
• Trap: Confusing Gantt charts as a scheduling method rather than a visualization tool
  • Reality: Gantt charts are a representation technique, not a distinct scheduling methodology
• Trap: Thinking Kanban is only for software projects
  • Reality: Kanban can be applied to any project type where work flow management is needed
• Trap: Believing Last Planner System® is the same as critical chain
  • Reality: LPS is collaborative planning focused on reliable promises; CCM focuses on buffer management

Important PMI Connections

Quick Review Questions

1. A project has significant resource constraints but flexible task dependencies. Which scheduling method should the project manager prioritize?
2. In which type of project would Location-Based Scheduling be most appropriately applied?
3. What distinguishes the Last Planner System® from traditional critical path scheduling?
4. A software development team wants to limit work in progress to improve flow. Which scheduling approach supports this goal?
5. How does the choice between predictive and adaptive life cycles influence the selection of scheduling methods?

PMBOK v8 Reference

Section 2.3.3.6 - Scheduling Approaches and Methods