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
There are a number of tasks that are associated with the actual development of a schedule. These tasks should follow a structured approach and include all stakeholders. These tasks include:
- Activity Definition
- Activity Sequencing
- Activity Duration Estimate
- Schedule Development
- 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: 6/20/2019
