Dependencies

What are Project Dependencies?

A dependency outlines the relationship between actions and the specific order in which they must be completed. Every planning, choice, and development process generates dependencies, which are usually predetermined. Tasks can be successors and predecessors to one another, allowing the timing of each execution to be synchronized.

Dependencies have a direct effect on product development progress and are common in cross-functional product teams. To prevent any interruptions to overall product development, it’s critical that dependencies are properly mapped out and planned for.

What are the benefits of project dependencies?

The ability to clearly define the project dependencies is critical to its overall success. A project manager needs to do the following:

• Lay down the task sequences in the project plan.
• Calculate the critical pathways of the tasks, or how long each one will take.
• Determine the resources required to perform the activities, as well as any potential scheduling conflicts.
• As part of the overall project plan, keep track of and manage tasks.
• Identify and take advantage of any opportunity to move the project’s job schedule forward.

Types of Dependencies in Project Management

Logical dependencies are the Fundamental requirements

Preference dependencies are based on the preferred path and offer multiple schedule possibilities.

Resource-based dependencies could be accomplished more quickly if more resources were available.

External dependencies are the tasks that are dependent on the external factors that you or your team cannot control.

Types of Task Dependencies

Finish to start (FtS): Task B can’t begin until Task A is finished. You must, for example, build your pizza before placing it in the oven.

Finish to finish (FtF): Task A can only be completed once Task B is completed. The QA team detects and reports issues in software development (Task A), and the engineering team fixes them (Task B). In this instance, testing is only complete until all bugs have been fixed.

Start to Start(StS): Task B cannot begin before Task A starts. Because asphalt dries fast, it must be levelled as soon as it is poured on the road. As a result, the activities of putting asphalt and levelling the road must begin simultaneously.

Start to Finish(Stf): Task B must begin in order for Task A to be finished (StF). Take the position of a security guard for example. A night guard is not relieved until the morning guard assumes command.

Also, See: Baseline