4 Project Scheduling Techniques for Project Managers

Managing a project can be an exciting endeavor. However, it’s also challenging for even the most experienced managers. Poor management processes led to a loss of 11.4% of resources across all organizations.

Projects involve a lot of moving parts and tough decisions. Because of this, time management in project management is one of the biggest challenges. The deadline can feel like a ticking time bomb rather than a guideline for your project.

That’s why we’ve created this guide to project scheduling techniques for you and your team. Read on to discover more and get on top of your deadlines.

1. Calendar

Having a project and resource calendar is one of the easiest ways to manage multiple projects. You can also use this in tandem with other project management scheduling techniques. Calendars provide transparency about where the project is going and its progress.

This is beneficial for you, your team, and the stakeholders involved. Some of the best scheduling tools include templates for all types of projects. These tools can create a channel for easier communication and collaboration.

This will help you prevent miscommunication and minimize errors.

2. Resource-Leveling

You can spend 28 times less money with the right project scheduling tools and techniques. The money you save can instead go to valuable resources that can help with other projects. Many project managers struggle with resource management, so how do you maximize what you have?

The answer is resource-leveling. Resource leveling is a technique that allows you to distribute tasks more evenly. This can make your progress more consistent and prevent long periods of inactivity.

3. Gantt Chart

A Gantt chart can give real-time updates on a project’s progress. Gantt charts function similarly to spreadsheets. They allow you to block stages, plan for resources, and outline specific tasks.

This gives you a clear vision and a detailed history of the project’s progress. The good news is there are plenty of free templates available.

You can even purchase templates with built-in automation features to save time. If you’re fond of spreadsheet tracking, this technique could be perfect for your project.

4. Critical Path Method

The critical path method is a popular project scheduling technique in construction. This technique enables you to identify the longest and shortest possible time you need to complete a project. The critical path method organizes a time frame based on task dependencies.

Task dependencies refer to tasks that can only be done after you complete a different one. Sometimes, you will have assignments with no dependencies, known as floating tasks. These tasks are less likely to affect your time frame, and knowing what floating tasks you have can provide some flexibility.

CPM can help you understand which tasks to prioritize to reach a deadline. This is one of the best techniques for efficient time management.

How to Be Efficient With Project Scheduling Techniques

Scheduling projects can be hard when juggling a tight deadline, budget, and limited resources. Use these project scheduling techniques to stay on track and minimize errors. Implementing multiple strategies can help you achieve the best results, but it’s always better when your projects are within easy reach.

That’s where Work Otter comes in! Work Otter offers a simple and affordable solution for project managers. Get a demo today.