(a) Refer to the network diagram in Fig. 1 (copied below) and to Table 1 in the Insert. [Figure 1]

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2022). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [1] (a)(i) EST = 2
2. [1] (a)(i) LFT = 5
3. [1] (a)(ii) Free float is the maximum time an activity can be delayed without delaying the next activity.
4. [1] (a)(ii) = EST next activity – duration – EST
5. [2] (a)(ii) = 8 – 3 – 2
6. [3] (a)(ii) = 3 days
7. [1] (a)(iii) Total float is the maximum time an activity can be delayed without delaying the whole project
8. [1] (a)(iii) = LFT - duration – EST
9. [2] (a)(iii) = 10 – 1 – 0
10. [3] (a)(iii) = 9 days
11. [K] (b) Definition of network analysis: this is part of project management to ensure that resources are used efficiently. Also known as critical path analysis it identifies all tasks in a project, puts them in the correct sequence and allows for the identification of the critical path.
12. [K] (b) Understanding of role of CPA in planning: Planning of when resources are needed: CPA sets out order and times of activities.
13. [K] (b) Understanding of role of CPA in planning: CPA sets out earliest start and latest finish times and gives critical path.
14. [K] (b) Understanding of role of CPA in planning: Sets target to work towards.
15. [K] (b) Understanding of role of CPA in planning: Construction of network diagram forces managers to plan project carefully.
16. [K] (b) Understanding of role of CPA in planning: Identifies critical activities for management to focus on.
17. [K] (b) Understanding of role of CPA in planning: Knowledge of free and total float.
18. [K] (b) Understanding of role of CPA in planning: Definitions of rationalisation, sub-contracting, outsourcing.
19. [K] (b) Understanding of role of CPA in planning: CPA enables decisions on how to minimise chance of delays.
20. [App] (b) New machines to replace two production lines.
21. [App] (b) First time the manager has used CPA.
22. [App] (b) Use of data from the network diagram.
23. [App] (b) Suppliers provided information and are responsible for activities B–J.
24. [App] (b) AP's objectives are lower costs and increased capacity.
25. [App] (b) Use of data from 2a – 14 days forecast minimum duration.
26. [App] (b) AP workers are unskilled (the training activity may take longer than expected).
27. [An] (b) CPA is a quantitative technique that gives accuracy to forecasting timescale, therefore making it more likely that the machines will be ready on time.
28. [An] (b) CPA enables resources to be given to activities at optimum time, avoiding idle resources and possibility of loss or damage.
29. [An] (b) Knowing the critical path enables focus on completion of key activities.
30. [An] (b) Consideration of possible variations in the network e.g. the allocated activity times might be over/under estimated, could training and testing be run together to save time?
31. [Eval] (b) Justified conclusion regarding confidence of operations manager as it is first time with CPA.
32. [Eval] (b) If AP has contributed to the information and planning the confidence is enhanced.
33. [Eval] (b) Accuracy of duration relies on supplier carrying out B–J on time, to what extent does AP have confidence?
34. [Eval] (b) Has the operations manager discussed the importance of these accuracy levels with the supplier?
35. [Eval] (b) The network diagram may not be accurate, especially as it a first-time effort.
36. [Eval] (b) CPA, even if well done, does not guarantee times being met, or duration being shortened.
37. [Eval] (b) Lack of contingency time means any delay at all will result in missing the 14-day deadline unless additional relevant resources are available.
38. [Eval] (b) External factors e.g. late delivery of resources might mean duration is longer.