Scheduling is the act of developing a schedule which is a series of tasks that need to be accomplished in a specific sequence within a given period of time. These tasks grouped together achieve a common goal on a project or program. Scheduling is one of the three main tasks of program management which are; Cost, Schedule, and Performance.

Scheduling is a key aspect of program management planning and is integral to a program’s Acquisition Strategy, Technical Baseline, Risk Management Plan (RMP), financial plan, and Requirements Development. It forms the foundation for executing the DoD Procurement (Acquisition, JCIDS, and PPBE) process and developing a program’s Integrated Master Schedule (IMS), Integrated Master Plan (IMP), and Work Breakdown Structure (WBS). In addition, scheduling is an important element of the other program management functions including; Organizing, Staffing, Controlling, and Leading.

Guide: Defense System Management College “Scheduling Guide for Program Managers”

Effective scheduling supports the following key program management activities:[1]

• Provides the basis for effective communications within the government team and with contractors
• Identifies a baseline for program status monitoring, reporting, and program control
• Facilitates management
• Provides the basis for resource analysis and Resource Leveling, exploration of alternatives, and cost/time tradeoff studies

5 Steps for Schedule Development

There are a number of steps that are associated with the actual Development of a Schedule. These tasks should follow a structured approach and include all stakeholders. These tasks include:

• Step 1: Activity Definition
• Step 2: Activity Sequencing
• Step 3: Activity Duration Estimate
• Step 4: Schedule Development
• Step 5: Schedule Control

Program Managers (PM) must have a good working knowledge of scheduling practices and applications (such as Gantt, Milestone, and Network Diagrams) in order to achieve program goals. Tasks that should be understood by a PM include:

• Integrated Master Schedule (IMS)
• Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
• Earn Value Management (EVM)
• Schedule Risk

AcqLinks and References:

• [1] Defense System Management College “Scheduling Guide for Program Managers” – Oct 2001
• DoD “Integrated Master Plan and Integrated Master Schedule Preparation and User Guide” – 21 Oct 2005
• CDC “Project Scheduling Best Practices/Guide” – 30 Jun 2007
• GAO 16-89G “Schedule Assessment Guide” – Dec 2015
• GAO 12-120G “Schedule Assessment Guide: Best Practices for Project Schedule” – May 2012

Updated: 4/27/2021

Rank: G1