PERT Diagram Template

A PERT diagram, short for Program Evaluation and Review Technique, is a visual project management tool. It provides a comprehensive representation of a project schedule, including its various tasks and milestones, in the form of a network diagram.

PERT serves several crucial functions in project management. It assists in estimating the time needed to finish a project, enables task allocation to team members, and identifies the critical path.

The critical path in project management refers to the longest sequence of indispensable tasks necessary for project completion. PERT employs variable task durations, offering a more sophisticated approach compared to the traditional critical path method. This makes it a valuable tool for project managers seeking a detailed and flexible project scheduling approach

How does a PERT diagram work?

A PERT diagram operates through a combination of nodes and vectors to represent project tasks, events, and their sequences:

1. Nodes: These are depicted as circles or rectangles and symbolize project milestones and significant events. Each node signifies a specific point in the project timeline.
2. Vectors: Vectors are the lines connecting the nodes and represent tasks or activities. The direction of the vectors signifies the order in which tasks or events must be completed.
3. Sequential Order: Numbers are often added along the vectors to indicate the sequence in which events or tasks should be accomplished. Additionally, project managers may include time estimates on the vectors to denote the time required to move from one node to another.

In PERT, each task is typically associated with three different time estimates:

• Optimistic Time: This is the minimum time required to complete a task under ideal circumstances
• Pessimistic Time: It represents the maximum time a task might take if unforeseen issues or delays occur.
• Most Likely Time: This is the best estimate of the typical time required to complete a task.

To depict time on a PERT diagram, you can use the most likely time, or you may choose to incorporate variations by considering all three time estimates. This approach allows for the creation of different potential project timelines based on different scenarios.

Tasks that depend on each other are presented in a specific order. For instance, if Task B is dependent on the completion of Task A, a vector is drawn from Task A to Task B, illustrating the prerequisite relationship.

In a project, there can also be parallel tasks or items that are unrelated to each other, meaning they can be executed simultaneously. These parallel tasks do not have a direct dependency on one another and can progress independently.

Benefits of a PERT diagram

A PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) diagram offers several benefits in the realm of project management and planning. These advantages include:

Visualization
PERT diagrams provide a clear visual representation of project tasks, milestones, and their interdependencies. This visual tool simplifies complex project structures and makes it easier for stakeholders to grasp the project's scope and sequence.

Time Estimation
PERT allows for more accurate time estimations by incorporating optimistic, pessimistic, and most likely time estimates for each task. This results in a realistic project timeline, reducing the risk of delays and unexpected setbacks.

Risk Identification
PERT helps in identifying potential bottlenecks, critical paths, and high-risk tasks. By assessing the variability in time estimates, project managers can pinpoint areas where additional attention and resources may be needed to mitigate risks.

Task Sequencing
The sequential order of tasks and events is explicitly displayed in PERT diagrams. This helps project teams understand the logical sequence of work and the dependencies between tasks.

Resource Allocation
PERT diagrams aid in allocating resources efficiently. Project managers can determine the optimal allocation of team members, equipment, and materials based on the expected project timeline.

When to use a PERT diagram?

A PERT diagram is a valuable tool in project management and should be used in various scenarios to facilitate effective planning, scheduling, and execution. Here are some situations when it's beneficial to use a PERT diagram:

Research and Development: PERT diagrams are commonly used in research and development projects where tasks and timelines are often uncertain. They allow for flexible scheduling while accounting for different scenarios.

Construction Projects: Large construction projects with multiple phases, sub-projects, and dependencies can use PERT to plan and track progress effectively.

Engineering Projects: Engineering projects, such as product development or infrastructure projects, often involve complex sequences of tasks. PERT diagrams help streamline these projects.

Event Planning: Organizing events, conferences, or exhibitions involves coordinating various activities and deadlines. PERT diagrams can ensure a smooth and timely event execution.

How to use the PERT Diagram template

Using FigJam's PERT Diagram template is a straightforward process. Here's a set of organized steps to guide you through creating and sharing your PERT diagram:

Step 1: Task Identification
Start by selecting the PERT Diagram template in FigJam. Begin listing all the individual tasks involved in your project and gather all necessary information to describe each task.

Step 2: Task Dependencies
Identify which tasks depend on the completion of previous tasks before they can begin. This information is crucial for setting up task sequences.

Step 3: Define Project Milestones
To track project progress, define project events or milestones. You can represent these milestones by drawing nodes in the shape of rectangles or circles.

Step 4: Connecting Tasks
Use arrows or vectors to establish connections between different nodes. Arrows symbolize tasks, and arrows from one task to another indicate task dependencies. On these vectors, add expected time frames for each phase or task.

Step 5: Concurrent Tasks
For tasks that can be performed simultaneously, employ divergent arrows. If there are dependencies that don't require shared resources, use dotted lines to depict them.

Step 6: Critical Path Visualization
Identify the critical path within your project. You can distinguish it by using different colored outlines for nodes or employing a specific arrow color. This visual distinction helps to highlight the most critical and time-sensitive tasks.

Step 7: Sharing Your Diagram
Once your PERT chart is complete, share it with your project team and key stakeholders. FigJam simplifies the sharing process and enables easy updates based on feedback and project progress.

Example of a good PERT diagram

Let's explore another practical example of a well-constructed PERT diagram, this time focusing on a product development and launch campaign:

Project: Product Development and Launch Campaign

Critical Events (Nodes):

1. Start Date
2. Design Hardware
3. Create Specifications Document
4. Write Tutorials
5. Release Prototype
6. Test Hardware
7. Release Hardware
8. Copy-edit Tutorials
9. Publish Tutorials
10. End Date

Creating the PERT Diagram

Step 1: Start with the first event, which is "Start Date," and represent it as the initial node.

Step 2: To establish the project sequence, draw an arrow from "Start Date" to "Design Hardware." This indicates that "Design Hardware" is the first critical task that must be completed.

Step 3: Create divergent arrows from the "Start Date" to define distinct workflows. In this example, draw arrows in three directions to represent parallel work streams: one for "Product Design," one for "Specifications and Testing," and one for "Creating and Publishing Tutorials."

Step 4 Continue to connect the nodes with arrows in their logical sequence. For instance, an arrow from "Design Hardware" to "Create Specifications Document" represents the dependency between these two tasks.

Step 5 Number the arrows to establish the sequence of tasks. This numbering helps clarify the order in which events must occur.

Step 6 Proceed to link all the nodes and arrows until they culminate in the final event, "End Date." This node signifies the completion of the project.

Identifying the Critical Path

The critical path is the sequence of tasks that, if delayed, would extend the project's overall duration. To identify this path, examine the PERT diagram and note the longest sequence of connected events. In our example, this path may encompass tasks related to "Product Design," "Specifications and Testing," and "Creating and Publishing Tutorials."

By following these steps and pinpointing the longest sequence of tasks, you can identify and mark the critical path. This path highlights the most time-sensitive aspects of your project, enabling you to focus your efforts and resources accordingly.

PERT chart vs. Gantt chart

Comparing PERT Charts and Gantt Charts:

Visual Representation: PERT diagrams utilize nodes and arrows to illustrate project tasks and dependencies, while Gantt charts employ horizontal bars to represent project phases. Each bar spans from the phase's start date to its end date.

Customization: PERT diagrams can be customized to suit the specific requirements of various projects, allowing for flexibility in design. Gantt charts, however, maintain a consistent bar chart-based structure, offering less room for customization.

Dependencies: PERT diagrams display task dependencies using arrows, visually representing the flow of work. In contrast, Gantt charts present dependencies in a Waterfall-like structure, where tasks are organized sequentially.

Timing: PERT charts are often created as an initial step before a project begins, offering a high-level overview of the project's timeline. Project managers may subsequently use Gantt charts or other tools to delve deeper into specific task details and scheduling.

How do you make a PERT diagram?

Creating a PERT diagram is a seamless process with the use of online collaborative whiteboard tools such as FigJam. Our dedicated PERT chart template, along with diagramming features, integrations, and collaborative capabilities, empowers your team to effortlessly outline your project's workflow.

How do you read a PERT diagram?

To interpret a PERT diagram, you should understand its key elements. Nodes stand for project events, while arrows represent tasks. When an arrow connects one node to another, it signifies that all tasks within the first node must be completed before the subsequent phase can commence. Various arrow types can convey different task characteristics. For instance, dotted lines may denote dependent tasks that don't require shared resources. Once you've comprehended the entire project timeline, follow the nodes and arrows to pinpoint the critical path.

What is the critical path in a PERT chart?

The critical path within a PERT chart illustrates the lengthiest sequence of vital tasks that must be successfully accomplished to bring a project to its conclusion. Think of it as the series of tasks that you simply can't bypass. For instance, you can't proceed to the upholstery and interior work if you haven't completed the construction of walls and the roof first. Delays in any of these critical tasks have a ripple effect on the entire project timeline. To address any missed deadlines in these crucial tasks, it may be necessary to reassign resources and personnel from less impactful tasks to ensure the project stays on track.