Analyse the benefits to NFP of using critical path analysis when planning the frozen food project. Refer to Appendix 2 in your answer.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2017). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [10] Definition: Planning technique showing activities, durations, LFTs, ESTs etc.
2. [10] Helps to ensure all activities are taken in correct sequential order
3. [10] Can plan to meet deadlines
4. [10] Helps to speed up project by identifying simultaneous activities
5. [10] Knowledge of float
6. [10] Helps to ensure all activities are taken in correct sequential order e.g. installing machinery after it has been delivered.
7. [10] Helps to speed up project by identifying simultaneous activities e.g. test recipes and refurbish factory
8. [10] Can plan to meet deadlines e.g. 4 months before the Food Fair as CP is 13 weeks
9. [10] Critical activities e.g. 3,6,7,10,11
10. [10] Can help to ensure deadlines are met e.g. if machine installation takes longer than 2 weeks, time must be saved on subsequent critical activities e.g. first production run
11. [10] Knowledge of float can be useful in managing the project as can identify activities that can be delayed and have resources diverted to critical activities to ensure that deadlines are met.
12. [10] Use of CPA can help identify when resources are need and thus cut costs as resources not idle waiting to be used
13. [10] Planning will reduce risk of mistakes as management will have information on appropriate sequence of activities and when they should happen.