Scheduling and Project Management Flashcards

A project is falling behind, and the contractor adds a second crew to recover time on critical tasks. This technique is called:

Answer: Crashing

Crashing adds resources, usually at extra cost, to shorten activity durations.

Overlapping tasks that would normally be done in sequence to save time is called:

Answer: Fast-tracking

Fast-tracking runs activities in parallel and can raise the risk of rework.

What is a schedule 'baseline'?

Answer: The approved original schedule used to measure progress and delays

Comparing actual progress to the baseline shows whether the project is ahead or behind.

Which event is generally considered an excusable delay outside the contractor's control?

Answer: Unusually severe weather or a government-ordered shutdown

Excusable delays come from events beyond the contractor's reasonable control, not poor planning.

If unforeseen rot is discovered behind a wall, what is the proper first step?

Answer: Stop the affected work, notify the owner, and document the condition before agreeing to a change order

Hidden conditions should be documented and communicated so scope, price, and schedule changes are agreed in writing.

Resource leveling in scheduling aims to:

Answer: Smooth out peaks and valleys in labor or equipment demand

Leveling shifts tasks within their float to avoid overloading crews or equipment.

Which practice best keeps a homeowner informed and reduces disputes during a project?

Answer: Regular scheduled updates on progress, upcoming work, and any changes

Consistent, documented communication keeps expectations aligned and prevents complaints.