Production control visuals: A Gantt chart (bar chart) is primarily used to communicate which of the following on a time scale?

Introduction / Context:
Gantt (bar) charts are classic tools to show planned and actual timing of activities. They provide a visual schedule that managers and operators can understand at a glance.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Activities or jobs with start and finish dates/times.
• A need to track progress versus plan.
• Possibly multiple machines or departments.

Concept / Approach:
A Gantt chart represents activities as bars on a time axis. It communicates when jobs should start/finish and how they overlap, and it can display progress. Routing is a different document; detailed machine utilisation typically requires load charts or analytics.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard PPC references list Gantt charts for scheduling and progress tracking, not for routings or sales metrics.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Routing sheets show sequences and work centers, not time bars.Sales and inventory topics are unrelated to Gantt timing bars.Machine utilisation can be inferred but is not the primary purpose.

Common Pitfalls:
Overloading the chart; failing to update progress; ignoring resource conflicts not evident on a simple bar chart.

Final Answer:

Production schedule and progress of jobs/operations over time