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6 - PROJECT TIME MANAGEMENT

6.6.2.7 Schedule compression

Schedule compression techniques are used to shorten the schedule duration without reducing the project
scope, in order to meet schedule constraints, imposed dates, or other schedule objectives. Schedule compression
techniques include, but are not limited to:

• crashing. A technique used to shorten the schedule duration for the least incremental cost by adding
resources. Examples of crashing include approving overtime, bringing in additional resources, or paying
to expedite delivery to activities on the critical path. Crashing works only for activities on the critical path
where additional resources will shorten the activity’s duration. Crashing does not always produce a viable 6
alternative and may result in increased risk and/or cost.
• Fast tracking. A schedule compression technique in which activities or phases normally done in sequence
are performed in parallel for at least a portion of their duration. An example is constructing the foundation
for a building before completing all of the architectural drawings. Fast tracking may result in rework and
increased risk. Fast tracking only works if activities can be overlapped to shorten the project duration.

6.6.2.8 Scheduling tool

Automated scheduling tools contain the schedule model and expedite the scheduling process by generating
start and finish dates based on the inputs of activities, network diagrams, resources and activity durations using
schedule network analysis. A scheduling tool can be used in conjunction with other project management software
applications as well as manual methods.

6.6.3 develop Schedule: outputs

6.6.3.1 Schedule Baseline

A schedule baseline is the approved version of a schedule model that can be changed only through formal
change control procedures and is used as a basis for comparison to actual results. It is accepted and approved by
the appropriate stakeholders as the schedule baseline with baseline start dates and baseline finish dates. During
monitoring and controlling, the approved baseline dates are compared to the actual start and finish dates to determine
whether variances have occurred. The schedule baseline is a component of the project management plan.

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