Introduction
In development project management, a network is a visual representation of activities and events arranged in a logical order. It helps in planning, organizing, and monitoring project activities effectively. Networks are useful tools for determining the sequence of activities, the time required, and identifying critical paths. Preparing a network requires some basic rules and a step-by-step process to ensure clarity and usefulness.
Basic Rules to Prepare a Network
While preparing a project network, there are several basic rules that must be followed:
1. Direction of Flow
All networks should flow from left to right. This makes it easy to understand the order of activities and events.
2. Activities Must Be Clearly Defined
Each activity should be clearly defined with a start and end point. It should represent a task that consumes time and/or resources.
3. No Loops or Cycles
A network should not have any loops. That means you should not return to a previous activity; each activity should move forward in a logical sequence.
4. Events Must Be Logical
The sequence of events must make logical sense. An activity should not start until all previous activities leading to it are completed.
5. Unique Identification
Each event and activity should have a unique number or code to avoid confusion while monitoring or analyzing.
6. Use of Dummy Activities
If two activities depend on the same event but are not directly connected, a dummy activity (represented by a dotted line) is used to show dependency without time or resources.
Steps in Preparation of a Network
To prepare a project network, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Identify All Activities
List all the activities required to complete the project. These should be specific and measurable tasks.
Step 2: Determine the Sequence
Find out which activities depend on others. Create a logical order by identifying which tasks must be done before others can start.
Step 3: Draw the Network Diagram
Use circles (or nodes) to represent events and arrows to represent activities. Begin from the starting point and draw activities in the correct sequence.
Step 4: Assign Duration
Estimate the time required to complete each activity. This helps in calculating the total project duration.
Step 5: Identify the Critical Path
The critical path is the longest path through the network. It shows the minimum time required to complete the project and the activities that cannot be delayed.
Step 6: Review and Finalize
Check the diagram for errors, logical flow, and completeness. Make adjustments if needed and finalize the network.
Example
Let’s consider a simple example of preparing a training workshop:
Activities:
- A: Identify trainers (2 days)
- B: Prepare training materials (3 days)
- C: Book venue (1 day)
- D: Send invitations (2 days)
- E: Conduct workshop (1 day)
Dependencies:
- A and B must be completed before E
- C must be completed before D
- D must be completed before E
Network Flow:
Start → A → E
Start → B → E
Start → C → D → E
This simple network helps identify that any delay in A, B, C, or D can affect the timely conduct of the workshop. Therefore, they are critical to the project’s success.
Conclusion
Preparing a network is a helpful way to manage development projects. By following basic rules and step-by-step procedures, project managers can ensure that all activities are completed on time and in the right order. A well-prepared network saves time, reduces confusion, and improves efficiency in achieving development goals.