Project Scheduling

The transition from project planning to project scheduling can be made using techniques such as push scheduling, also known as the Critical Path Method (CPM), and pull scheduling, often associated with Agile scheduling. Each approach offers distinct advantages and disadvantages depending on the nature and requirements of the project.

Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful.

– George Box, Founder of the Department of Statistics, University of Wisconsin-Madison

The Big Ideas in this Lesson

A project schedule is a shared time map for successful completion of the project. Depending on what constitutes "success" for the project, the schedule may include several hard deadlines and be highly constrained, or may be completely flexible and unconstrained.
Scheduling is a phase of project management that necessarily blends geometric and living order, often combining the predictability of critical path techniques with the agility offered by pull scheduling.
Because a schedule is a communication and thinking tool, the level of detail with which it is prepared and communicated should be tailored for the needs of the project and team members.
The critical path method – the consummate geometric, push tool – is essential for identifying activities that determine the expected duration of a complex project. However, an excessive focus on critical path analysis during project execution can divert needed attention and energy from pull-focused project delivery.

Source: University of Wisconsin
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