Bar (Gantt) charts in project control: Which of the following is an incorrect statement about Bar Charts used for planning and monitoring construction activities?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Bar charts establish the interdependency (logical precedence) of one event/activity on another.

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Bar Charts (Gantt charts) are widely used for planning and progress reporting because they are simple and visually intuitive. However, they have limitations compared to network methods like CPM/PERT, especially in showing logical dependencies.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Standard bar chart with activities plotted against time.
  • No embedded network logic unless separately annotated.
  • Construction project with multiple interdependent tasks.


Concept / Approach:
Bar charts show duration and timing but not the full precedence network. Without additional notations (like arrows/links), they cannot reliably represent the interdependency of activities and events. Hence any statement claiming that bar charts inherently establish interdependency is incorrect.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Evaluate Option A: A single bar per activity is the standard representation, so this is correct.Evaluate Option B: Claiming that bar charts establish interdependency is incorrect because pure Gantt formats lack explicit logical relationships.Evaluate Option C: Simple bar charts are commonly used to show approximate completion percentages, which is acceptable.Therefore, Option B is the incorrect statement.


Verification / Alternative check:
Network diagrams (CPM/PERT) explicitly include nodes and links to show dependencies and critical paths; bar charts require extra linkage or a separate network to convey the same information.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Option A: Accurately describes Gantt chart representation.
  • Option C: Reflects typical practice of percent-complete reporting.
  • Option D: 'None of these' is wrong because one statement is indeed incorrect.
  • Option E: Bar charts are effective communication tools; this is true, but not central to the question.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing annotated Gantt charts (with precedence links) with basic bar charts; assuming visibility of float and criticality on bar charts without network analysis.



Final Answer:
Bar charts establish the interdependency (logical precedence) of one event/activity on another.

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