Sequence Activities
Sequence Activities is the process of identifying and documenting relationships among the project activities.
Explanation
Sequence Activities establishes the logical order in which project activities must be performed. The output of this process is the project schedule network diagram, which visually represents the dependencies between activities. This process turns a flat activity list into a logically connected network that can be analyzed for schedule optimization.
The primary tool used in this process is the Precedence Diagramming Method (PDM), which uses nodes to represent activities and arrows to show dependencies. Four types of logical relationships can exist: finish-to-start (FS), start-to-start (SS), finish-to-finish (FF), and start-to-finish (SF). Additionally, leads and lags can be applied to refine the timing of relationships.
Dependencies are classified as mandatory, discretionary, external, or internal. Mandatory dependencies are inherent to the nature of the work. Discretionary dependencies are established by the team based on best practices or preferences. External dependencies involve relationships with non-project activities. Internal dependencies are within the project team's control. Understanding these dependency types is critical for schedule optimization and risk analysis.
Key Points
- •Establishes logical relationships among project activities
- •Uses the Precedence Diagramming Method (PDM) as the primary technique
- •Produces the project schedule network diagram
- •Dependencies are classified as mandatory, discretionary, external, or internal
Exam Tip
Sequence Activities is about logical relationships, not durations. Duration estimates come in the next process (Estimate Activity Durations).
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Topics
Precedence Diagramming Method (PDM)
The Precedence Diagramming Method (PDM) is a technique used to construct a schedule model in which activities are represented by nodes and are graphically linked by logical relationships to show the sequence of activities.
Leads and Lags
A lead is the amount of time a successor activity can be advanced with respect to a predecessor activity. A lag is the amount of time a successor activity must be delayed with respect to a predecessor activity.
Mandatory Dependencies
Mandatory dependencies are those that are legally or contractually required or inherent in the nature of the work, often involving physical limitations.
Discretionary Dependencies
Discretionary dependencies are established by the project team based on knowledge of best practices, preferred sequencing, or past experience, even though other sequences are possible.
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Resource Leveling
Resource leveling is a resource optimization technique in which adjustments are made to the project schedule to keep resource usage at or below a defined limit, often resulting in a longer project duration.
Resource Smoothing
Resource smoothing is a resource optimization technique that adjusts activities within their available float so that resource requirements do not exceed predefined limits, without changing the project end date.
Burndown Chart
A Burndown Chart is a graphical representation of work remaining versus time in a Sprint or release, showing whether the team is on track to complete the planned work.
Risk Register
The risk register is a project document that records the details of individual project risks, including their identification, analysis results, response plans, and current status.
Stakeholder Mapping
Stakeholder mapping is the visual representation of stakeholder relationships, influence, interest, or other attributes using grids, matrices, or diagrams to support analysis and engagement planning.
Relative Estimation
Relative Estimation is an agile technique where work items are sized in comparison to each other rather than in absolute units like hours or days, providing faster and more accurate estimates.
Cost Performance Index (CPI)
Cost Performance Index (CPI) is an EVM efficiency metric that measures cost performance as the ratio of earned value to actual cost: CPI = EV / AC.
Schedule Performance Index (SPI)
Schedule Performance Index (SPI) is an EVM efficiency metric that measures schedule performance as the ratio of earned value to planned value: SPI = EV / PV.
Earned Value Management (EVM)
Earned Value Management (EVM) is a methodology that integrates scope, schedule, and cost data to assess project performance and progress objectively.
Part of
Schedule Management
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