Which activity relationship in CPM scheduling means the successor activity cannot start until the predecessor activity finishes?
Correct Answer
A) Finish-to-Start (FS)
Finish-to-Start (FS) is the most common relationship in CPM where the successor activity cannot begin until the predecessor activity is completely finished.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Finish-to-Start (FS) is the correct answer because it describes the logical sequence where a predecessor activity must be completely finished before the successor activity can begin. This is the most fundamental and commonly used relationship in CPM scheduling, representing the natural flow of construction activities. For example, you cannot start framing until the foundation is completely finished.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: Finish-to-Finish (FF)
Finish-to-Finish (FF) means both activities must finish at the same time or the successor must finish after the predecessor finishes, but they can run concurrently.
Option C: Start-to-Start (SS)
Start-to-Finish (SF) is rarely used and means the successor activity must start before the predecessor activity can finish, which is the opposite of the described relationship.
Memory Technique
Use 'FS = Finish First, Start Second' - the predecessor must FINISH completely before the successor can START, just like finishing your foundation before starting your walls.
Reference Hint
Look up CPM scheduling fundamentals in construction management chapters, typically found in project scheduling sections discussing activity relationships and dependencies.
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