Network planning technology

Network planning technology: Optimized planning for complex projects

Network planning technology is a proven method for planning, visualizing and controlling processes in projects, production processes or procurement processes. It provides a precise overview of time dependencies and the critical path of tasks in order to organize projects efficiently. It is often used in project management to determine the duration, sequence and buffer times of processes.

What is network planning technology?

Network planning technology is used to bring tasks and processes into a logical sequence that takes into account both temporal and content-related dependencies. It ensures that the most important processes of a project are identified and coordinated with each other in time. A network plan helps to determine the total duration of a project, calculate buffer times, and identify critical paths where delays could jeopardize the completion of the project.

Typical functions of a network plan

A network plan offers the following functions, among others:

• Visualization of processes: presentation of tasks and their time dependencies.
• Determining the duration of the project: Calculation of the time frame required for the entire project.
• Buffer times: Calculation of times during which delays are still possible without jeopardizing the project end date.
• Critical path: Identify tasks that should not be delayed in order to complete the project on time.

The components of network planning technology

Network planning technology is based on the visualization of nodes and arrows, which represent processes and their dependencies. The nodes represent individual processes, while arrows show the relationships between the processes — i.e. which step depends on which other.

Key elements of a network plan

• Node: Each process is represented by a node that contains information such as start and end times and buffer times.
• arrows: These show the sequence of processes and their dependencies.
• Earliest start date (FAZ): The earliest possible time when a process can begin.
• Earliest end date (FEZ): The earliest possible end of a process.
• Latest start date (SAZ): The latest time at which a process must begin so as not to jeopardize project completion.
• Latest end date (SEZ): The latest time at which an operation must be completed.
• Total buffer (GP): Length of time during which a process can be delayed without jeopardizing the end date.
• Free buffer (FP): Time in which a process can be postponed without influencing subsequent tasks.

Preparation of a network plan in four steps

A network plan is created in several steps to determine dependencies, buffer times and the critical path:

1. Networking of processes: First, the dependencies between the processes are analyzed and linked in a graphical presentation.
2. Forward scheduling: Calculation of the earliest possible start and end times (FAZ and FEZ).
3. Backward scheduling: Calculation of the latest start and end times (SAZ and SEZ).
4. Calculation of buffer times: Determine the time frames in which delays are possible without affecting project completion.

The critical path in the network plan

The critical path is the sequence of tasks that cannot be delayed in order to meet the project completion date. Operations on this path have no buffer time (total buffer = 0). The critical path helps to focus on the essential tasks whose timely implementation is decisive for project success.

Benefits of network planning technology

Network planning technology offers numerous advantages, particularly when it comes to planning and managing complex projects:

• Transparency: The network plan provides a clear overview of all processes and their dependencies.
• Resource planning: Better coordination and allocation of resources, such as personnel and materials.
• Buffer times: Early identification of potential delays and their impact on the project.
• Critical path: Identify the most important tasks that shouldn't be delayed.

Network planning technology challenges

Creating a network plan can be time-consuming, particularly for large and complex projects. Any change in the course of the project requires an adjustment of the plan, which can mean additional effort. In such cases, the use of project management software is helpful to dynamically update the network plan and integrate changes more quickly.

conclusion

Network planning technology is an indispensable tool for planning and managing projects. It provides a precise overview of all processes, dependencies and time buffers so that projects can be carried out efficiently and on time. By identifying the critical path and calculating buffer times, network planning technology enables predictive planning that minimizes risks and ensures project success.