Differentiate between PERT and CPM | Network Analysis | Networking

This article will help you to differentiate between PERT and CPM.

Difference # PERT:

1. A probability model with uncertainty in activity duration. The duration of each activity is normally computed from multiple time estimates with a view to take into account time uncertainty. These estimates are ultimately used to arrive at the probability of achieving any given scheduled date of project completion.

2. It is said to be event oriented as the results of analysis are expressed in terms of events or distinct points in time indicative of progress.

3. The use of dummy activities is required for representing the proper sequencing.

4. PERT is generally used for those project where time required to complete various activities is not known.

5. It is applied for widely planning and scheduling research. Programmes and developing projects.

6. PERT analysis does not usually considers costs.

7. PERT is an important control device too, for it assists the management in controlling a project by calling attention as a result of constant review to such development in activities which might cause a delay in the project completion date.

8. PERT helps the manager to schedule and coordinate various activities so that the project can be completed on scheduled time.

Difference # CPM:

1. A deterministic model with well-known activity times based upon the past experience. It therefore, does not deal with uncertainty in time.

2. It is activity oriented as the results of calculations are considered in terms of activities or operations of the project.

3. The use of dummy activities is not necessary.

4. CPM is commonly used for those project which are repetitive in nature and where one has prior experience of handling similar projects.

5. It is used for construction projects and business problems.

6. CPM deals with costs of project schedules and their minimization. The concept of crashing is applied mainly to CPM models.

7. It is difficult to use CPM as a controlling device for the simple reasons that one must repeat the entire evaluation of the project each time the changes are introduced into the network.

8. CPM places dual emphasis on time cost and evaluates the trade-off between project cost and time. By deploying additional, resources, it allows the project manager to manipulate project duration within certain limits so that project duration can be shortened at an optimal cost.