A partial results from a PERT analysis for a project with 50 activities shows that path A-K-Q Solution There are 50 activities shows the path A-K-Q. With the help of PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique), and CPM (Critical Path Method), the project manager can 1. Plan the project ahead of time and foresee possible sources of troubles and delays in completion. 2. Schedule the project activities at the appropriate times to conform with proper job sequence so that the project is completed as soon as possible. 3. Coordinate and control the projects activities so as to stay on schedule in completing the project. Thus PERT incorporates uncertainties in activity times in its analysis. It determines the probabilities of completing various stages of the project by specified deadlines. It also calculates the expected time to complete the project. An important and extremely useful by product of PERT analysis is its identification of various “bottlenecks” in a project. Application of PERT and CPM A partial list of applications of PERT and CPM techniques is 1. Construction projects (e.g., buildings, highways, houses, and bridges) 2. Preparation of bids and proposals for large projects. 3. Maintenance planning of oil refineries, ship repairs, and other large operations. 4. Development of new weapons systems and new manufactured products. 5. Manufacture and assembly of large items such as airplanes, ships, and computers. 6. Simple projects. Six steps : 1. Define the projects and all of its significant activities or tasks. 2. Develop the relationships among the activities. Decide which activities must precede and which must follow others. 3. Draw the network connecting all of the activities. 4. Assign time and/or cost estimates to each activity. 5. Compute the longest time path through the network; this is called the critical path. 6. Use the network to help plan, schedule, monitor and control the project..