Scheduling and Project Management Flashcards

A subcontractor finishes early, freeing a crew. What is the best project management response?

Answer: Evaluate whether successor tasks can start earlier to gain schedule time

Early completion can create an opportunity to pull later tasks forward if dependencies allow.

What is a 'milestone' in a project schedule?

Answer: A significant event with zero duration, such as passing a framing inspection

Milestones mark key points of progress and typically have no duration themselves.

Why is it good practice to tie progress payments to completed work stages?

Answer: Payments then match value delivered, protecting both owner and contractor

Stage-based payments align cash flow with actual progress and reduce the risk of overpayment.

Which document helps a homeowner confirm subcontractors and suppliers have been paid, reducing lien risk?

Answer: Lien waiver or release

A lien waiver shows a sub or supplier has been paid and gives up lien rights for that amount.

Long-lead items such as custom windows should be:

Answer: Ordered early so delivery does not delay the critical path

Items with long manufacturing times must be ordered early to avoid becoming schedule bottlenecks.

A daily job log is most useful for:

Answer: Documenting work performed, weather, deliveries, visitors, and issues

Daily logs create a record that supports claims, delay disputes, and progress tracking.

When should the contractor schedule the required final inspection on a permitted project?

Answer: After all permitted work is complete and before final close-out with the owner

Final inspection confirms permitted work meets code and is part of properly closing out the job.