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Types of dependencies between tasks on a Gantt Chart with examples
A Gantt chart is an important tool in project management, enabling effective planning and visualization of dependencies between tasks. In large projects, these dependencies are inevitable and require understanding and management to ensure the project runs smoothly. A Gantt chart allows teams to see how delays in one task can easily affect others. In this context, it is essential to understand the types of dependencies used in the Gantt chart.
Types of task dependencies on a Gantt Chart with examples
We can distinguish the following Gantt Chart Dependencies:
- Finish to Start —The predecessor finishes before the successor can start.
- Start to Start —The predecessor starts before the successor can start.
- Finish to Finish —The predecessor finishes before the successor can finish.
- Start to Finish —The predecessor starts before the successor can finish.
A Gantt chart is not only a visual representation of your project but a powerful tool that helps you understand how each stage and task affects the overall flow of your project. The dependencies between chart elements are significant here. By understanding these dependencies, you can take control of your project’s timeline and ensure its completion. The following part of the article will present the full range of possibilities for modeling a project using a Gantt chart and practical examples, empowering you to manage your projects more effectively.
Finish to Start dependency
The Finish to Start dependency is a standard dependency in project management. Specifies that a dependent (successor task) can start only after completing the predecessor task. In other words, the start of task B is directly reliant on the completion of task A.
Example: A finishes, B starts.
Task A: Pouring concrete on the foundations.
Task B: Launching of the construction of load-bearing walls.
In this scenario, you cannot start building walls (Task B) until the concrete in the foundations (Task A) has been set and reached the required strength. This logical link ensures that the building’s structure is safe and stable.
The Finish to Start dependency is crucial in projects where the sequence of tasks is strictly defined and cannot be changed without affecting the entire project. It allows project managers to accurately plan and schedule work, which is necessary to keep the construction process running and avoid unnecessary downtime.
Start to Start dependency
The Start to Start dependency in the Gantt chart indicates a situation where parallel tasks start simultaneously. It means that the start of one task is directly linked to the beginning of another task, allowing both to be executed simultaneously.
Example: A starts, B can start.
Task A: Architectural design of the building.
Task B: Preparation of preliminary cost estimates.
In this case, both architectural design (Task A) and cost estimate preparation (Task B) can start simultaneously. While it is valuable when tasks are independent, simultaneously completing them is efficient or required for other reasons, such as project time constraints.
The Start to Start dependency is functional when you want to maximize available resources and reduce the overall project delivery time. It allows for more flexible task management and can help you achieve your project goals faster.
Finish to Finish dependency
The Finish to Finish dependency is a type of dependency in which the completion of one task relates to the completion of another. This means that two tasks are scheduled to finish simultaneously, or one can only finish once the other is completed. In a Start to Start dependency, tasks start simultaneously. Still, their completion is unrelated, distinguishing it from the finish to finish dependency.
Example: A finishes, B can finish.
Task A: Installation of electrical installations.
Task B: Completing dropped ceilings.
In this case, the finish to finish dependency means that the installation of electrical installations (Task A) and the ceilings (Task B) must be completed simultaneously to allow the next stage to begin, which can be, for example, painting the walls. It is essential because finishing work, such as painting, can begin once all installation work and the ceiling are ready.
The Finish to Finish dependency is convenient for projects requiring multiple workflows to be completed simultaneously to move to the next stage or to reach an important milestone.
Start to Finish dependency
A Start to Finish dependency is a less common but valuable dependency between tasks. In this dependency, the following task can only be completed after the preceding task has started. It is beneficial for projects that require one task to start before another to finish.
Note the key difference from the most common Finish to Start dependency, where a successor task cannot start until the prior task is complete. In a Start to Finish dependency, a prior task must start before a successor task can begin.
Example: A starts, B must start before the end of A.
Task A: Preparatory work
Task B: construction works
In this case, the construction work (Task B) cannot start until the preparatory work (Task A) has begun. In this case, Task A must start before Task B can start. This means that the start of Task B is directly related to Task A. This dependency is crucial when the start of one task depends on the start of another task, not on its completion.
In summary, the Start to Finish dependency harmonizes tasks to ensure that specific tasks are only initiated while others are in progress. This is important for the smooth running of the project and for avoiding unnecessary delays or repetitions of work.
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