Define Activity Constraints
Explanation
Use this activity to define constraints for existing activities, which
introduce conditions or limitations that affect the timing and execution of
those activities. Constraints are used to address real-world restrictions
such as deadlines, resource availability, or delayed input, ensuring the
project schedule remains realistic and achievable. Constraints play an
important role in scheduling calculations by refining the schedule to
accommodate project-specific requirements. They help align activity timing with
milestones, contractual obligations, and resource constraints.
Constraints can be used to:
- Set fixed start or finish dates for specific activities.
- Limit the earliest or latest possible start or finish times.
- Ensure compliance with project milestones or external deadlines.
In Activity Scope and Schedule, use the
Add/Modify Constraint command to define the applicable
constraints.
Possible Constraints
Constraints can be defined using the following types:
- Start Not Earlier Than: The activity cannot start
before the specified date.
- End Not Later: Than The activity must finish by the
specified date.
- Must Start On: The activity must start on the
specified date.
- Must End On: The activity must finish on the
specified date.
- As Late As Possible: The activity should be
scheduled as late as possible without delaying the project’s finish
date.
Prerequisites
- Activities must already exist in the project.
System Effects
As a result of this activity:
- Logical dependencies are established between activities, forming an
activity network.
- The system uses this network in project scheduling to:
- Calculate the critical path, identifying which activities
directly affect the project’s end date.
- Determine float/slack, helping identify which activities have
scheduling flexibility.
- Ensure dependent activities are updated during rescheduling, so
when one activity is changed, all linked activities are adjusted
accordingly.
- Support impact analysis, making it easier to assess how delays
or changes affect the overall project timeline.