Unique Configuration
Allowed Positive Lag - set the maximum amount of lag days until a lag duration is flagged
While there may be situations where positive lag is justified and necessary, it should be used sparingly and with a clear, well-documented rationale. Generally, CPM scheduling aims to accurately reflect task dependencies and the logical sequencing of work to provide a clear and realistic project schedule. Introducing unnecessary positive lag can hinder these goals and create issues related to clarity, accuracy, and effective project management.
- Lack of Clarity: Positive lag can introduce ambiguity and lack of clarity in the schedule. It is often difficult to determine the specific reasons for inserting positive lag, making it challenging to interpret the logic behind task relationships.
- Misrepresentation of Dependencies: CPM scheduling relies on accurately representing dependencies between tasks. Positive lag can distort these dependencies and may not accurately reflect the real-world relationships between tasks.
- Reduced Schedule Precision: Positive lag can reduce the precision of the schedule. The schedule should aim to reflect the most accurate and realistic representation of task dependencies, and positive lag may result in inaccuracies.
- Risk of Inaccurate Critical Path Analysis: When positive lag is introduced without a clear reason, it can lead to inaccuracies in the identification of the critical path. The critical path is the sequence of tasks that determines the project's overall duration, and misrepresenting dependencies can impact this analysis.
- Misleading Reporting: Introducing positive lag can lead to misleading progress reporting. It may appear that certain tasks are ahead of schedule when, in reality, they are not. This can impact decision-making and lead to mismanagement of resources.
- Risk of Overlooking Problems: Positive lag can mask potential problems and delays in the project. Project managers and stakeholders may not be aware of issues until they become critical, reducing the time available for corrective actions.
- Reduced Accountability: Inserting positive lag can lead to a lack of accountability for task delays or dependencies. Team members may not feel responsible for keeping the project on track if there is unnecessary lag built into the schedule.
- Complexity: Positive lag can introduce complexity into the schedule without clear benefits. It makes the schedule harder to manage, read, and understand, leading to potential confusion among stakeholders.
- Resource Allocation Challenges: Positive lag can disrupt resource allocation and utilization. It may result in inefficient use of resources and resource conflicts due to the artificial delays introduced by positive lag.