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Fast-track construction involves overlapping project phases to shorten the overall schedule. Managing schedule compression effectively requires understanding how to calculate the impact of acceleration measures and controlling potential risks.
Understanding Schedule Compression
Schedule compression is the process of shortening the project timeline without compromising quality or safety. It often involves techniques such as crashing or fast-tracking. Crashing adds resources to critical activities, while fast-tracking overlaps tasks that are normally sequential.
Calculating Schedule Compression
To calculate schedule compression, identify the critical path and determine the amount of time that can be reduced. The crash cost and crash duration are key factors. The crash cost is the additional expense incurred to shorten activities, and the crash duration is the minimum possible time for an activity.
The formula for crash cost per day is:
Crash Cost per Day = (Crash Cost – Normal Cost) / (Normal Duration – Crash Duration)
Managing Schedule Compression
Effective management involves balancing the benefits of a shorter schedule against increased costs and risks. Regular monitoring and updating of the project schedule are essential. Communication with stakeholders ensures everyone understands the implications of acceleration strategies.
Key steps include:
- Assess critical activities for potential crashing.
- Evaluate crash costs and durations.
- Implement overlapping tasks carefully.
- Monitor progress and adjust plans as needed.
- Manage risks associated with fast-tracking.