A simplified method of evaluating PERT/CPM network parameters

A simplified method of finding PERT/CPM critical paths, project durations, and slack times is described. This method is not a replacement for the standard computer algorithms. Instead, it offers a simple procedure for manually finding the critical project parameters that is suitable for teaching the principles to both technical and nontechnical users. It combines the best aspects of existing methods to form a tabular method that maintains a visual component. Experience shows that it is sufficiently intuitive that it can be learned without the need for an instructor, even though it is rigorously founded on the principle of optimality. A computer code is included to further illustrate the method. >