A construction project has a critical path of 120 days. Due to weather delays, Activity X (on the critical path) is delayed by 5 days. If no corrective action is taken, what will be the new project duration?
Correct Answer
D) 125 days
Any delay to activities on the critical path directly extends the project duration by the same amount. A 5-day delay to a critical path activity increases the total project duration from 120 to 125 days.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
The critical path represents the longest sequence of activities that determines the minimum project duration. Any delay to activities on the critical path directly impacts the overall project completion date because there is zero float or slack time. Since Activity X is on the critical path and experiences a 5-day delay, the entire project duration extends by exactly 5 days, from 120 to 125 days.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 115 days
This option incorrectly assumes the project duration remains unchanged despite the delay. This would only be possible if the delayed activity had float time or if corrective actions were taken to compress the schedule elsewhere.
Option C: Cannot be determined without more information
This option is incorrect because critical path analysis provides sufficient information to determine the impact. When an activity on the critical path is delayed, the effect on project duration is always equal to the delay amount.
Memory Technique
Think 'Critical = No Cushion' - critical path activities have no time cushion (float), so any delay directly pushes out the finish line by the same amount.
Reference Hint
Look up 'Critical Path Method (CPM)' and 'Project Scheduling' in construction management references or Florida Building Code Study Guide Chapter on Project Management
More Business & Finance Questions
A general contractor purchases equipment worth $45,000 with a useful life of 9 years and no salvage value. Using straight-line depreciation, what is the annual depreciation expense?
What is the typical recommended coverage amount for general liability insurance for a small to medium-sized general contracting business?
A contractor estimates startup costs of $75,000 for equipment, $25,000 for initial inventory, $15,000 for insurance premiums, and $10,000 for working capital. They can finance 70% of the total. How much cash do they need?
When establishing professional relationships with architects and engineers, what is the most important factor for a general contractor to consider?
A partnership agreement for a construction company should address all of the following EXCEPT:
A contractor purchases a truck for $60,000. After 5 years, it has accumulated depreciation of $35,000. What is the truck's book value?
A contractor's business plan projects first-year revenue of $500,000 with a 15% net profit margin. If actual revenue is $450,000 with the same profit margin, what is the variance in net profit?
Using the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS), construction equipment is typically depreciated over how many years?
A contractor is comparing financing options for equipment purchase. Option A: $80,000 cash purchase. Option B: $20,000 down, $65,000 financed at 6% for 4 years. What is the total cost of Option B?
A contractor purchases equipment using a capital lease with a present value of $120,000. How should this be recorded on the balance sheet?