Critical Path vs Critical Chain: Are You Managing Time, or Managing Flow?
In the world of project controls, two terms often pop up when it comes to scheduling: Critical Path Method (CPM) and Critical Chain Project Management (CCPM). While both aim to keep projects on track, they tackle the problem from very different angles.
Critical Path focuses on the longest path of dependent tasks—delays here directly impact the project end date. It’s all about identifying task sequences and managing float (or the lack of it).
Critical Chain, on the other hand, brings in a human element—acknowledging resource constraints and the tendency to pad task durations. Instead of stacking buffers throughout the schedule, CCPM pulls them together at key points, protecting the project timeline with smarter focus and less multitasking.
Key differences:
CPM = Task-driven, deterministic, static.
CCPM = Resource-driven, probabilistic, adaptive.
At zerofloat, we often ask clients:
Are you simply tracking tasks, or are you building flow and resilience into your delivery?
Which method has worked better for you in real-world projects—and why?
Let’s compare notes in the comments.
Drop your thoughts below and feel free to repost.
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