A project manager discovers that the critical path has been delayed by 4 days due to late material delivery. The project was originally scheduled to complete in 120 days. What is the new project duration?
Correct Answer
D) 124 days
Since the critical path determines project duration, any delay to critical path activities directly extends the project completion date. A 4-day delay on the critical path extends the 120-day project to 124 days.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
The critical path represents the longest sequence of activities that determines the minimum project duration. Any delay on the critical path directly impacts the overall project completion date because there is no float or slack time available. When the critical path is delayed by 4 days, the entire project duration must be extended by those same 4 days, making the new duration 120 + 4 = 124 days.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 116 days
This option is incorrect because we have sufficient information to determine the new duration. The critical path delay directly translates to project delay in a 1:1 ratio when no mitigation measures are implemented.
Option B: Cannot be determined without more information
This option incorrectly subtracts the delay from the original duration, which would suggest the project finishes earlier despite experiencing delays on the critical path.
Option C: 120 days
This option incorrectly assumes the project duration remains unchanged despite the critical path delay. The critical path has no float time, so any delay must extend the project completion date.
Memory Technique
Use the acronym 'CPD' - Critical Path Delay always equals Project Delay (unless you crash or fast-track to recover time).
Reference Hint
Look up 'Critical Path Method (CPM)' and 'Project Scheduling' in construction management chapters, typically found in project management or scheduling sections of contractor reference books.
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