Project Management and Scheduling
What this domain tests
Planning, CPM scheduling, float, updates, submittals, RFIs, changes, delay, and closeout.
Core rules
- CPM uses activities, durations, and logic ties. The critical path has zero total float. Total float is slip that does not delay completion; free float is slip that does not delay the next activity.
- Maintain a baseline schedule and update it monthly; use a three-week look-ahead for field coordination.
- Delay is excusable or non-excusable, compensable or non-compensable. Owner-caused delay may support time and cost; weather may support time only if the contract allows.
- Log submittals and RFIs; review time can entitle the contractor to an extension.
- Closeout: punch list, warranties, as-builts, O&M manuals, final payment, and lien waivers.
Worked example
Activities: A(3) then C(2); B(5) then D(4); C and D precede E(1). Path A-C-E = 6 days; B-D-E = 10 days. Critical path is B-D-E; duration is 10 days. A and C each have 4 days total float; E has zero. If B slips 2 days, completion slips 2 days unless B is compressed or logic changes.
Traps
Confusing total and free float; failing to update the schedule; granting time without notice; not documenting delay contemporaneously; using a schedule that does not match the pay application.