Is Your Schedule Correct?

Summary:  Project Managers typically know how to use a scheduling software tool such as Primavera or Microsoft Project, either from a training course, mentoring from colleagues or self-learning. However, despite this knowledge, many people utilize incorrect techniques in preparing their schedules. This paper is based on observations made by the author in reviewing project schedules for numerous clients over the years. Most of these schedules contained errors that greatly reduced the schedule accuracy and value. Based on these observations, this paper presents a list of the top ten mistakes people make when preparing project schedules. Techniques that can be used to avoid these scheduling mistakes, along with a recommended schedule preparation procedure to help ensure that a schedule is accurate and complete, will also be discussed. This paper should interest people who are just learning how to schedule, as well as those who currently prepare schedules and want help in creating more effective schedules. If you think you are a skilled scheduler, read this paper to see whether you are making any of the common scheduling errors. You may be surprised!

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Subject Matter Expert: Joseph A. Lukas, PMP®, PE, CCE
Joe Lukas is Vice-President of PMCentersUSA, and leads a team of instructors and consultants in delivering project management and business analysis training and consulting to clients across the country.  Joe has been involved in project management for over 30 years and has worked in engineering, manufacturing, construction, project controls, estimating and contracting, and has been a Program and Project Manager supporting world-wide programs. His project management experience spans information systems, product development, capital construction and manufacturing projects. He is a registered Professional Engineer, Project Management Professional and Certified Cost Engineer.