Project management systems

Critical path analysis:

The mathematical network analysis technique of planning complex working procedures with refernece to the critical path of each alternative system

• Used for time sensitive manufacturing/products
• Calculates longest path to complete project
• Calculates shortest duration possible if everything runs on time
• Least float (wriggle room) calculated

The process of a critical path analysis:

• Compile a list of all activities
• Work out the length of time for each activity
• Determine the relationship between the activites
• Determine the specific points in time in the deliverable items/activities

Scrum:

A design approach that revolves around teamwork. An emphasis on daily communication and the flexible reassessment of plans that are carried out in short, iterative phases of work.

• Used in project management
• Everyone has clearly defined goals
• Multiple department team (designers, engineers, marketing etc)
• Needs of user/product is at forefront of all decisions
• Agile/flexible/fast moving based on constant feedback

Burn down charts:

• Show what still needs completing and helps calculate completion dates

Sprint meeting:

• Daily teem meeting about what's been completed/what will be done today

Six sigma:

A business management system to:

• Reduce defects
• Increase customer satisfaction
• Increase qualitiy

The 5 stages of six sigma are:

• Define: What does the customer need
• Measure: Measure the processes to determine current performance
• Analyse: Where are the defects/variations
• Improve: What changes need to be introduced to make the system more efficient
• Control: Monitor/record improvements

Reduce process cycle time:

• Reduce non-value added activites (inefficent layout, reducing errors, not completing paperwork that isn't needed)

Reduce pollution:

• Reduce distance materials need to travel, more efficient work that goes to waste, more efficient processes

Reduce costs:

• Reduce process cycle time/pollution, simplifying the steps needed (redesign components), use a common manufacturing process, using standardisation to reduce costs

Increase customer satisfaction - increased profits:

• More satisfied customers lead to increased profit, long service life/high qualitiy leads to customers recommending products which increases profits

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