Project Scheduling with PERT and CPM

Managing complex projects requires precise scheduling, but how do you choose the right framework when timelines are uncertain? Understanding the distinct roles of PERT and CPM is essential for delivering projects on time and within budget. This text-based course guides you through the fundamental principles of the Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) and the Critical Path Method (CPM). You will learn how to analyze project structures, calculate expected times, map dependencies, and confidently select the best method for your specific project needs. What you'll learn: Understand the core concepts, historical origins, and structural differences between PERT and CPM; Calculate expected activity durations using three-point estimation formulas under uncertainty; Identify the critical path to determine the minimum time required to complete a project; Manage project float and slack to optimize resource allocation and prevent delays; Apply these scheduling techniques alongside modern agile and hybrid project management workflows; Choose the appropriate scheduling method based on project risk, predictability, and constraints. You will start with key terminology and the foundational concepts of network diagrams. From there, you will progress to practical calculations, step-by-step critical path analysis, and modern real-world applications. This course is designed for aspiring project managers, team leads, and coordinators. No prior experience with formal scheduling methodologies is required. Start reading today to bring structure and predictability to your project timelines.