Critical Path Method (CPM) improves on bar charts, offers a realistic problem-solving framework, reduces delays common with simple bars, and was introduced in 1957 by Morgan R. Walker (DuPont) and James E. Kelley (Remington Rand)—therefore, all the above.

Civil Engineering Construction Management Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
  • A
    is an improvement upon bar chart method
  • B
    provides a realistic approach to daily problems
  • C
    avoids delays which are very common in bar charts
  • D
    was invented by Morgan R. Walker of Dupot and James E. Kalley or Remington U.S.A. in 1957
  • E
    All the above

Answer

Correct Answer: All the above

Explanation

Introduction / Context:CPM adds logic, float analysis, and critical-path focus to scheduling—capabilities absent in simple bar charts. Historically, it emerged in the late 1950s in U.S. industry for large, complex projects requiring rigorous control.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Statements compare CPM to bar charts and cite historical origin.
  • Minor spelling inconsistencies in names do not alter the fact pattern.

Concept / Approach:Bar charts visualize time but not dependencies. CPM encodes precedence, computes earliest/latest times, derives floats, identifies the critical path, and enables crashing/time–cost optimization—making it more realistic for daily problem-solving and delay avoidance through proactive control.

Step-by-Step Solution:1) Recognize CPM's enhancements: precedence logic + float → better control than bars alone.2) Realistic approach: CPM aligns resources and priorities with schedule risk (criticality).3) Delay avoidance: by guarding critical activities and using floats intelligently.4) Historical note: 1957 development credited to Morgan R. Walker (DuPont) and James E. Kelley (Remington Rand).

Verification / Alternative check:Project management histories uniformly document the 1957 origin and industry application of CPM; practitioner evidence shows CPM reducing uncertainty-driven slippages compared with bar-only tracking.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Options A–D are all valid; choosing only one is incomplete. The inclusive choice reflects the full truth.

Common Pitfalls:

  • Using CPM without periodic updates—logic must reflect reality to avoid delays.
  • Relying solely on bars and missing dependency-driven risks.

Final Answer:All the above.

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