Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT)

Use a project evaluation and review technique to efficiently manage even complex projects
By Lea Terry, Freelance Journalist / Copywriter When you plan a project, you need to know exactly what's involved and how much time each component requires; the Program Evaluation and Review Technique, or PERT, can help you minimize the guesswork and manage your projects more efficiently.

PERT was invented in the late 1950s by Booz Allen Hamilton, under contract to the US Navy Special Projects Office, part of the United States Department of Defense. Since then, program evaluation and review techniques have caught on across both the public and private sectors, with many companies developing their own version of the PERT technique. PERT in business includes the following steps:

1. Start a business PERT analysis by identifying the specific tasks necessary to the project.
2. Determine the proper sequence of these tasks.
3. Diagram the tasks, and their relationships to each other.
4. Estimate the time needed for each task.
5. Outline the "critical path," by adding the time needed for each task.
6. Update the PERT chart periodically during the project.

Use PERT training to strengthen your project management skills

If you frequently oversee project management, consider training in PERT or other project management methods. Many materials are web-based or available on CD-ROM, so you can complete the training at your own pace.
Try:  Take a free online PERT tutorial at GetAhead, or order Project 98, a training program that includes instruction on how to create PERT charts in Microsoft Project.

Model your PERT charts after online examples

Program evaluation and review techniques must take into account a multitude of factors, and the process can intimidate newcomers. However, several websites offer models and step-by-step examples you can use as a basis for your own PERT charts.
Try:  MindTools offers a detailed checklist for formulating PERT charts and related project management tools such as Critical Path Analysis. NetMBA guides you step-by-step through the PERT process, and alerts you to the benefits and limitations of the technique.

Simplify project management with PERT chart software

For even greater efficiency of project management PERT, consider PERT software. PERT programs automate many of the tasks associated with project management, and allow you to instantly see the potential impact of individual tasks on your schedule.
Try:  PERT Chart EXPERT calculates an optimum timeline for your project based on your specifications. This PERT program can be used by itself, or integrated with Microsoft Project, and any changes you make in EXPERT are automatically reflected in Microsoft Project. With MinuteMan project management software, you can manage projects with up to 1,000 tasks using Gantt and PERT charts.

• When determining the "critical path" section of your PERT chart, estimate the shortest length of time required by each task, the most likely length of time needed, and the longest length of time if the task should take longer than expected. This provides a more realistic analysis of the total time needed to complete the entire project, taking into account any setbacks.