Project Planning & Scheduling Flashcards

What is the purpose of a 'milestone schedule' as compared to a detailed CPM schedule?

Answer: A milestone schedule shows only key dates and events, providing a high-level summary of major project phases

A milestone schedule highlights key dates and deliverables without the detailed activity logic of a CPM schedule, useful for executive-level communication.

Which specification provision is used to impose financial penalties on a contractor for failing to complete the project by the required date?

Answer: Liquidated damages clause

Liquidated damages clauses specify a pre-agreed daily dollar amount the contractor owes for each day the project extends beyond the required completion date.

During preconstruction, a specifier helps identify 'long-lead items.' What defines a long-lead item in the context of project scheduling?

Answer: Materials or equipment that require extended procurement time and must be ordered early to avoid schedule delays

Long-lead items are materials or equipment with lengthy procurement and fabrication times that must be identified and ordered early to prevent construction delays.

A 'no-damage-for-delay' clause in a construction contract primarily protects which party?

Answer: The owner, by limiting the contractor's recovery to time extensions only (not money) for certain delay types

No-damage-for-delay clauses limit contractor recovery for owner-caused delays to time extensions only, barring monetary claims for delay damages.

When a construction specification requires 'CPM scheduling software,' which output format is most commonly required for schedule submittals?

Answer: Network diagram or time-scaled logic diagram showing activity relationships and critical path

CPM schedule submittals typically require a time-scaled logic diagram or network diagram that visually shows activity relationships, durations, and the critical path.

What is the function of a 'construction progress meeting' in the context of schedule management?

Answer: To review current schedule status, identify delays, coordinate upcoming work, and resolve issues affecting project completion

Progress meetings are a primary schedule management tool where all parties review actual vs. planned progress, identify problems, and coordinate upcoming activities.

A specifier is preparing Division 01 requirements for a fast-track project. Which scheduling approach is most appropriate for fast-track delivery?

Answer: Overlapping design and construction phases so construction starts on early packages before full design completion

Fast-track delivery intentionally overlaps design and construction phases, allowing construction of early packages (e.g., foundations) while later packages are still being designed.