CPM Network Diagram

Introduction

The Critical Path Method (CPM) network diagram shows nothing but a scheduling procedure that uses a network diagram to depict a project and the sequences of tasks required to complete it. As you will learn here, a CPM Network Diagram helps find which sequence of activities has the least measure of scheduling resilience by which it predicts the duration of the project.

It should be noted here that the CPM Network Diagram is based on estimating the standard time needed for the execution of an activity.

Please keep reading to learn more about the CPM Network Diagram and how it helps describe any task sequence.

1. Understand CPM Network Diagram

The Critical Path Method (CPM) is one of the most important concepts in project management and certainly among the most enduring. As shown in the below example, the CPM is the sequence of scheduled activities that determines the duration of any project. These scheduled activities must be performed if the project is to be considered a success.

The easiest example to understand the practical usage of the CPM Network Diagram is by considering a house -- If you are building a house, you would have several task sequences as follows: Each task takes a different amount of time and resources. It takes more time to build walls and lay the roof than to install faucets and fixtures.

2. How to create a CPM Network Diagram in EdrawMax Online?

Creating a CPM Network Diagram in EdrawMax Online is pretty simple. The free Network Diagram maker has several features, like directly importing the data from the .csv file or creating one from scratch using free templates.

Login EdrawMax Online

Log in EdrawMax Online using your registered email address. If this is your first time accessing the tool, you can create your personalized account from your personal or professional email address.

Choose a template

EdrawMax Online comes with hundreds of free network diagram templates. Select a pre-designed template from the product based on your preference or need by selecting the "Network" on the left navigation pane. It will open up several Network Diagram types, like Rack Diagram, AWS, and more. Alternatively, press "+" in EdrawMax Online canvas to create a Network Diagram from scratch.

Work on your research

CPM is a step-by-step project management technique. Try to understand the critical and non-critical tasks before making the diagram.

Customize the diagram

Customize yours by changing the CPM Network Diagram symbols and shapes as required. With the easy drag-and-drop feature of EdrawMax Online, you can use all the relative elements from libraries.

Export & Share

Once your CPM Network Diagram is completed, you can share it amongst your colleagues or clients using the easy export and share option. You can export the Network Diagram in multiple formats, like Graphics, JPEG, PDF, or HTML. Also, you can share the designs on different social media platforms, like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Line.

Important Tips

CPM is a means of evaluating how long each task will take before finishing the entire project. Since CPM depends upon the duration of tasks, your CPM Network Diagram should define sequences of project network activities that can be added up to the longest duration.

Conclusion

CPM technique is used to plan and control a project and calculate the minimum completion time for a project and the possible start and finish time. EdrawMax Online is one such tool that helps you create a CPM Network Diagram with built-in templates and ease down your efforts. You can also share the CPM network diagram with your remote team if that is required.