How Can Project Managers Reduce Duration Without Changing Scope?

Fast Tracking vs Crashing: Best Techniques for Schedule Compression

Learn how fast tracking helps project managers compress schedules and reduce project duration without altering the project scope. Discover the benefits and risks of overlapping tasks to meet tight deadlines in predictive project management.

Question

Which technique reduces project duration without changing the project scope?

A. Fast Tracking
B. Resource Leveling
C. Scope Creep

Answer

A. Fast Tracking

Explanation

In predictive project management, schedule compression techniques are used to shorten the project timeline without reducing the project scope. Fast tracking is one of the primary schedule compression techniques, which involves performing activities in parallel or overlapping them, rather than executing them sequentially as originally planned. While this approach can significantly accelerate the project timeline, it also increases project risk and the potential for rework, as dependent tasks are started before their predecessors are fully completed.