The Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) chart represents a project’s activities timeline graphically. The U.S. Navy first used the PERT chart in 1957 as a guidance tool for its nuclear submarine program. Although the PERT chart is highly beneficial for project managers, it has several weaknesses.
PERT charts have nodes that connect project timelines. When arrows connect a node, the tasks are dependent on each other (Kopp, 2019). However, PERT charts may have parallel lines to depict that one activity can be performed concurrently with another. Hence, PERT charts show how tasks should be performed.
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The PERT chart is advantageous for several reasons. First, managers can assess the resources and time required for a project’s management (NetMBA, 2020). Second, PERT charts uphold interdepartmental responsibility because it integrates data from various departments. Third, adherence to the PERT’s suggested timeframe encourages organizational communication flow and commitment to relevant projects that engender the firm’s strategic positioning. Finally, PERT charts are used to optimize project efficiency when managers use them to understand the program’s flow of set milestones and resources. Hence, the PERT chart is useful for project management.
Nevertheless, the PERT chart has several disadvantages. First, PERT charts are subjective, and their success is based on a project manger’s experience (NetMBA, 2020). Second, PERT charts may have estimations that are unreasonable and unreliable data that provide the wrong time and cost estimations for a project. Third, PERT charts may not accurately communicate a project’s financial status because they focus on the deadlines. Finally, PERT charts are labor-intensive, require continuous activity review, and may need additional resources for establishment. Hence, PERT charts have several weaknesses.
PERT charts are graphical tools used to provide a project’s milestones. The PERT chart has weaknesses and strengths that project managers must evaluate before using them as timeframe assessment tools. Nevertheless, the PERT chart is highly useful for project management.
References
Kopp, C. M. (2019, June 25). Learn about program evaluation review technique — PERT charts. Retrieved from https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/pert-chart.asp
NetMBA. (2020, June 25). PERT chart. Retrieved from https://www.netmba.com/operations/project/pert/
