What is Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT)?

Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) is a project management tool used to analyze and represent the tasks involved in completing a given project. It was developed by the U.S. Navy in the 1950s to manage the Polaris submarine missile program. PERT diagrams are used to identify tasks, estimate completion times, and determine the critical path of activities needed to complete a project.

How Does PERT Work?

PERT diagrams are created by connecting nodes that represent tasks or milestones in a project. Each node is assigned an estimated duration for completion, which is then used to calculate the earliest and latest start and finish dates for each task. The critical path of activities is determined by identifying the longest sequence of tasks from start to finish. This helps project managers identify which tasks must be completed on time in order for the entire project to stay on schedule.

Benefits of Using PERT

Using PERT can help project managers better understand how long it will take to complete a project and identify potential risks or delays. It also allows them to adjust their plans accordingly if any changes occur during the course of the project. Additionally, PERT can be used to compare different scenarios and determine which one will result in the most efficient use of resources.