What is Float?

Float, also known as slack, is the amount of time that a task can be delayed without impacting the project’s overall completion date. It is the amount of time that a task can be delayed without delaying the start of any successor tasks. Float is an important concept in project management because it allows for flexibility and helps to ensure that projects are completed on time.

How to Calculate Float?

Float is calculated by subtracting the Early Start (ES) from the Late Start (LS). The formula for calculating float is: Float = LS – ES. For example, if a task has an early start of day 1 and a late start of day 5, then the float would be 4 days. This means that the task can be delayed up to 4 days without impacting the overall completion date of the project.

Uses of Float

Float is used to identify tasks that have some flexibility in their schedule. This allows project managers to adjust tasks as needed in order to meet deadlines or accommodate changes in scope. Float can also be used to identify tasks that are critical to the success of the project. Tasks with little or no float are considered critical tasks and should be given priority over other tasks.