Critical Path

(noun)

In a CPM diagram, the longest time period that any series of tasks will take. This amount of time becomes the maximum amount of time needed to complete the project.

Examples of Critical Path in the following topics:

  • CPM and PERT Charts

    • The critical path method (CPM) is a project modeling technique that was developed in the late 1950s by Morgan R.
    • The longest series of tasks in a project is referred to as the "critical path;" in this case, it would be A-->C.
    • The critical path is the sequence of project network tasks that combine for the longest overall duration.
    • The critical path also tells the project manager the shortest possible time period in which the project can be completed since the timing of the project will be dependent on the completion of critical path tasks.
    • Finally, the concept of a critical path is integral to the usefulness of the model.

  • Somite Development

    • Somites play a critical role in early development participating in the specification of the migration paths of neural crest cells and spinal nerve axons.
    • In addition, the somites specify the migration paths of neural crest cells and the axons of spinal nerves.

  • Gemeinschaft and Gesellschaft

    • Tönnies' distinction between Gemeinschaft and Gesellschaft, like others between tradition and modernity, has been criticized for over-generalizing differences between societies, and implying that all societies were following a similar evolutionary path, which he has never proclaimed.

  • Complications of Globalization

    • While you may be able to drink coffee from Ethiopia while texting on a phone manufactured in Korea on an Uber in New York City, there are also some critical downsides to a global economy.
    • Yet still, due to regulatory environments lacking proper standards and business practices pursuing the path of least resistance, this exploitation continues.
    • The other often cited criticism of a globalized economy is the rapid consolidation of many industries.
    • Addressing these consequences respectfully and carefully to mitigate the negative effects is a critical concern for governments, businesses, and each and every one of us.

  • Introduction to Red Ocean and Blue Ocean Strategy

    • Six paths were identified:
    • Finding a way to look across this (utilizing the 6 paths above) to identify and fill those unique needs is the way in which niche markets are created.
    • Criticism in academia exists for the blue ocean perspective, generally observing that despite the theoretical attractiveness there are few success stories who actually us the blue ocean strategy.
    • It was also noted by some critics that there was a lack of control group in the publication, and that the theory itself is inherently unfalsifiable.
    • Regardless of these criticisms, it is still highly influential and clearly defines a perspective which resonates well with the strategic framework as it currently stands in business.

  • N-cliques

    • Usually, the path distance two is used.
    • This approach to defining sub-structures is called N-clique, where N stands for the length of the path allowed to make a connection to all other members.
    • With larger and fewer sub-groups, the mayor (#5) no longer appears to be quite so critical.

  • Conservative and Nonconservative Forces

    • Work done by the gravity in a closed path motion is zero.
    • We imagine a closed path motion.
    • Let us now change the path for motion from A to B by another path, shown as path 3.
    • This is true for an arbitrary path.
    • Motion along different paths.

  • Designing the Operation

    • Designing effective operations is critical, and can have both short-term and long-term impacts on an organization's longevity.
    • Managing the flow of water from reservoirs; identifying possible future development paths for parts of the telecommunications industry

  • Flattening Hierarchies

    • Parts of the hierarchy that are not linked vertically to one another can be horizontally linked through a path by traveling up the hierarchy; this path eventually reaches a common direct or indirect superior and then travels down the hierarchy again.
    • When organizations reach a critical size, they can retain a streamlined structure; however, they cannot keep a completely flat manager-to-staff hierarchy without impacting productivity.

  • Electron Microscopy

    • An electron beam has an exceptionally short wavelength and can hit most objects in its path, increasing the resolution of the final image captured.
    • Sample preparation can be critical to generate a successful image because the choice of reagents and methods used to process a sample largely depends on the nature of the sample and the analysis required.