What is PERT in project management and how to create it?

What is PERT in project management?

Program Evaluation and Review Technique, commonly known as PERT, is a project management tool widely used in industries that require complex project management, such as construction, engineering, and Software Development. The US Navy originally developed PERT in the 1950s to manage the Polaris submarine missile program. Since then, it has become a popular project management tool thanks to its ability to schedule, coordinate, and control complex projects.

In more detail, PERT is a network-based technique that uses a diagrammatic representation of a project, helping project managers visualize interdependencies between tasks. A PERT diagram consists of nodes representing project-related tasks and arrows representing dependencies between tasks. Each button is labeled with the task name, estimated duration, and other relevant information. Arrows connect the nodes and show the sequence of tasks that must be completed. The arrows also show the estimated time needed to complete each task and the dependencies between tasks.

Advantages of PERT in project management

PERT is a powerful project management tool that offers many benefits to project managers. 

Some advantages of PERT include:

Better time management

Time management is one of the important aspects of project management. With PERT, project managers can estimate the time needed to complete each task and the overall project. PERT helps identify the sequence of tasks and their dependencies, making project planning easier. By understanding the time required to complete each task, project managers can better manage their time and ensure project completion on time.

Improve resource allocation

Resource allocation is another important aspect of project management. With PERT, project managers can identify essential tasks that require more resources and allocate them accordingly. PERT allows project managers to identify tasks that are important to the project and those that can be deferred or delayed. By allocating resources effectively, project managers can ensure that resources are used effectively and efficiently.

Better risk management

Risk management is an essential part of project management. PERT helps project managers identify potential risks and their impact on the project. PERT allows project managers to identify tasks that are important to the project and those that are not. By identifying potential risks and their impact, project managers can take the necessary actions to minimize risks and ensure project success.

Communication has improved

Communication is critical to project success. PERT provides a visual representation of a project, making it easier to communicate project status to stakeholders. PERT diagrams allow project managers to present complex project information in a simple and easy-to-understand manner. PERT helps inform all stakeholders and participants in the project.

Make effective decisions

PERT provides project managers with the information needed to make informed decisions. By providing a clear understanding of the tasks involved in the project, their sequences and dependencies, project managers can make better decisions about the project. PERT also allows project managers to identify critical paths, helping them make decisions about resource allocation and risk management.

How to create a PERT chart in project management​

To create a critical path in a PERT chart , a project manager should follow these steps:

Step 1: Determine project tasks

The first step is to identify all the tasks involved in the project. These tasks must be clearly defined, have start and end dates, and be measurable.

Step 2: Identify task dependencies

The second step is to identify dependencies between tasks. This involves identifying the functions that must be completed before other tasks can begin.

Step 3: Determine task duration

The third step is to determine the duration of each task. This involves estimating the time needed to complete each task.

Step 4: Identify the critical path

The fourth step is to identify the critical path, which is the sequence of tasks that must be completed on time to ensure timely completion of the project.

Step 5: Draw the PERT chart

The fifth step is to draw a PERT chart. The PERT chart should include all tasks, their dependencies, and durations. It should also highlight critical paths.

Step 6: Monitor and control project progress

The final step is to monitor and control the project's progress. This involves tracking the progress of each task, identifying potential risks and taking the necessary actions to mitigate them.

In short, what is PERT in project management ? PERT is a valuable tool in project management, allowing project managers to analyze and present the tasks involved in completing a project. With the right training and adoption, PERT can help project managers achieve project success by providing a detailed and visual representation of their projects.