ASCE ASCE Construction Engineering and Management

Question 1

Which scheduling technique uses a network diagram to identify the longest path through a project?

Accepted Answer

Critical Path Method (CPM)

Answer

CPM identifies the critical path—the longest sequence of dependent tasks—to determine the minimum project duration.

Question 2

In construction management, what does 'earned value' (EV) represent?

Accepted Answer

The budgeted cost of work performed

Answer

Earned Value is the budgeted cost of work actually performed, used to measure project performance against plan.

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of a Request for Information (RFI) during construction?

Accepted Answer

To seek clarification on contract documents

Answer

An RFI is used by contractors to seek clarification or additional information about ambiguous or incomplete contract documents.

Question 4

Which contract type places the greatest financial risk on the contractor?

Accepted Answer

Lump sum (fixed price)

Answer

Under a lump sum contract, the contractor bears all cost overrun risk since payment is fixed regardless of actual costs.

Question 5

What does the Schedule Performance Index (SPI) indicate when it equals 0.85?

Accepted Answer

The project is behind schedule

Answer

An SPI less than 1.0 indicates the project is behind schedule, meaning less work has been completed than planned.

ASCE - American Society of Civil Engineers Certification Practice Test