What project management technique is used to identify critical paths and estimate completion time?

The project management technique that focuses on identifying critical paths and estimating completion time is PERT (Program Evaluation Review Technique) and CPM (Critical Path Method). Both of these methods are essential tools used in project management to schedule project tasks and manage timelines effectively.

PERT is particularly useful when the project involves uncertain activity times. It employs a probabilistic model, meaning it considers the variability and uncertainty in the duration of tasks. PERT allows project managers to visualize the interdependencies between tasks and assess the overall timeline, thus identifying the critical path—this path consists of tasks that directly affect the project's completion time. Any delays in the tasks on this critical path will lead to delays in project completion.

CPM complements this by focusing on the determination of the longest stretch of dependent activities and measuring the time required to complete them. It helps project managers to pinpoint which tasks are critical for the project's progress and which have flexibility, thereby optimizing resource allocation and enabling timely project completion.

In contrast, a Gantt chart presents a visual representation of a project schedule but does not explicitly identify critical paths or estimate completion times based on task interdependencies. A fishbone diagram is used for root cause analysis and does not pertain to project scheduling or timelines, while SWOT analysis is a strategic planning