In Part 2 of this series, Schedule Analysis, Part 2: Why Should I Do It?, it was stated that schedule analysis increases confidence in the schedule and its results. It provides information as to where the schedule needs to be improved and how it needs to be improved.
The automated tools provide indicators of schedule health, usually in a red, yellow, green stoplight. Not all red, yellows, and greens are equal. A yellow in one area may be more significant than a red in another area. As an example, done is still being defined and it is yellow. But the schedule logic is red. This is a case where yellow trumps red. Defining done is more important than figuring out how to get to done.
Why Do I Care?
One answer is schedule confidence. Another is: I want to know. I want to know where the weaknesses are in the plan prior to it being socialized to the world. The basics of schedule analysis are contained in the contract and associated specifications and deliverables. Project managers want to know the answer to any question that I may get prior to the question being asked. At a minimum, perform the analysis and metrics that are called out in the contract. Ideally, use the tool set and unique parameters that are being used to analyze the schedule to get the same results. This rule is no surprises.
The Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and the General Accountability Office (GAO) have published how they perform their analysis. We should all take advantage of this transparency. We are being told what will be reviewed. It is in our best interest to study the material. People do what people inspect.
Schedule analysis provides the project manager with a tool, process and methodology assuring that the schedule data is accurate, precise and represents the plan for getting to done. Schedule analysis provides the project manager with confidence and assurance that the plan to get to done is executable and represents the plan to get done.
Summary
Schedule analysis shows that the schedule is comprehensive, well constructed, credible, and controlled. Schedule analysis looks at both schedule construction and schedule execution. Schedule construction is important in execution because if the foundation is poor, the ability to respond to inputs will be poor. The schedule is a time model for completing the project. The Five Immutable Principles of Project Success define the project and how it will be completed.
- What does done look like?
- How do we get to done?
- Do we have everything we need for the plan to produce done?
- What could possibly go wrong?
- How are we going to measure progress to our plan other than the passage of time and consumption of money?
Answering the questions produces a quality plan to get to done. Using schedule analysis tools to review the schedule as it is being constructed helps build a better plan. Maintaining the schedule and performing schedule analysis during execution keeps the plan realistic and up to date.
Finally, schedule analysis provides confidence that the information provided is precise and accurate. It prevents surprises. It provides insight into potential stakeholder questions.
Talk to a Pinnacle professional about your needs - SCHEDULE A CONVERSATION - SEND US AN EMAIL - or give us a call (888) 975-1119
