Project Schedule Network Diagram
A diagram that visually shows the dependencies and sequencing among activities in the project schedule.
Key Points
- Displays activity nodes and the logical links that define order and dependency (FS, SS, FF, SF).
- Used to identify the critical path, total/float values, and potential bottlenecks.
- Supports schedule development, what-if analysis, and compression techniques like fast tracking and crashing.
- Often created with the precedence diagramming method; leads and lags can be shown on relationships.
Example
In a software project, "Develop Feature A" must finish before "System Test" can start (finish-to-start). "Prepare Test Data" can begin once "Design Complete" starts (start-to-start) with a 2-day lag. The network diagram maps these links so the team can find the critical path and schedule buffers.
PMP Example Question
Which artifact best illustrates how activities depend on one another in the project schedule?
- Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
- Project Schedule Network Diagram
- RACI Matrix
- Milestone List
Correct Answer: B — Project Schedule Network Diagram
Explanation: The network diagram visually presents the logical relationships (dependencies and sequence) among schedule activities.
