Bar charts (Gantt charts) are best suited for representing smaller, well-defined construction or project tasks where activity interdependencies are minimal.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Minor works

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Bar charts, also called Gantt charts, are among the earliest and simplest time–progress visualization tools in construction and project management. This item tests recognition of their most appropriate application scope compared with network-based methods such as CPM and PERT.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The instrument in question is the bar chart (Gantt chart).
  • We must identify the type/scale of work where it is most suitable.
  • Assume typical construction planning needs: activity listing, start–finish windows, basic monitoring.


Concept / Approach:
Bar charts display activities as horizontal bars on a time axis. They excel at readability for a small number of discrete tasks, quick status checks, and stakeholder communication. However, they do not explicitly show logical dependencies (finish–start, start–start), resource conflicts, or critical paths without extra annotations, limiting their effectiveness for complex or very large projects.


Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify what a bar chart conveys: activity name *vs* time window (planned/actual).2) Consider complexity: few activities → clear; many activities → cluttered, hard to trace logic.3) Consider dependency modeling: limited in basic bar charts; networks do better.4) Conclude: Best suited to minor works (small renovations, maintenance jobs, short-duration tasks).


Verification / Alternative check:
Industry guidance places bar charts as appropriate for short scopes and early communication; networks (CPM/PERT) are preferred when interdependencies and critical paths must be managed rigorously.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Major works: Require explicit logic ties and critical path—bar charts alone are inadequate.
  • Large projects: Excessive bars and missing logic transparency reduce control.
  • All of the above: Overbroad; suitability does not extend equally to larger/complex projects.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Assuming a bar chart inherently communicates dependencies.
  • Scaling a simple bar chart to very complex portfolios without network support.


Final Answer:
Minor works.

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion