Q&As

What is the critical path?

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Published by a LexisNexis Construction expert
Published on: 25 July 2014
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The critical path is an important feature of the programme prepared in respect of a construction project. Whether or not an activity is on the critical path can affect the impact that a delay might have on the project overall. Therefore, identifying whether an activity was on the critical path, can be significant in relation to claims by the contractor for time/money.

The programme is the document, usually prepared by the contractor at the start of the works, which records the contractor’s sequencing and timing for carrying out the works. It presents the timeline that the contractor proposes to build to, showing activities occurring between particular dates. It also helps the employer and contract administrator

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Critical path definition
What does Critical path mean?

The sequence of activities that determine the overall duration of the works and the completion of which, in the order and manner planned, is critical to the work finishing on time. If this sequence has to be altered or the activities are changed it could affect the contractor’s ability to complete the works on time.

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