Construction Scheduling from Coursera

This course focuses on learning how to develop and manage a schedule. The first module provides an overview of the Construction Scheduling course. The second module introduces bar or Gantt charts and how they are used as scheduling tools. During the third module, learners will create activity precedence diagrams, also referred to as activity on node diagrams, which graphically represent the construction activities in a project and their relationships. The fourth module provides an overview of the types of construction activity relationships encountered in a construction project and how to represent them in an activity precedence diagram. Forward and backward pass calculations are covered in the fifth module, and during the sixth module, Professor Odeh discusses the importance of critical paths, including what it is and why it is important.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

-Discover key project scheduling techniques and procedures

-Learn how to develop and manage a schedule, and understand scheduling tools such as bar charts, activity on arrow, and activity on nodes

-Explore the multiple relationships that connect all the construction activities in our project from start to finish

-Learn about creating a network diagram, defining the importance of the critical path in a project network, and defining project activities float

-Understand the fundamentals of bar charts, precedence diagrams, activity on arrow, Program

-Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT), range estimating, linear project operations, and the line of balance (LOB)

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Construction Scheduling

The first module provides an overview of the Construction Scheduling course and the topics that will be covered. Learners will discover the relationships connecting construction activities, how to perform scheduling procedures, how to determine critical path and more. Professor Odeh will describe the differences between calendar dates and work dates and teach how to deal with uncertainty in construction projects.

Bar (Gantt) Charts

The second module introduces bar or Gantt charts and how they are used as scheduling tools. Bar charts represent a project work item or activity as a time scaled bar; the length of which represents the planned duration of a construction activity.

Activity Precedence Diagrams

In this module, learners will create Activity Precedence Diagrams, also referred to as Activity on Node Diagrams, which graphically represent the construction activities in a project and their relationships.

Types of Construction Activity Relationships

This module provides an overview of the types of construction activity relationships encountered in a construction project and how to represent them in an activity precedence diagram.

Forward and Backward Pass Calculations

Forward and Backward Pass Calculations are covered in this module. Forward Pass Calculations determine the minimum dates at which each construction activity can be performed and, ultimately, the minimum duration of a construction project. Backward Pass Calculations compute the latest dates by which each construction activity can be performed without increasing the projects minimum duration.

Critical Path

Professor Odeh discusses the importance of critical path in this module including what it is and why it is important. Learners will identify a critical path in a project and how to determine a critical path in different relationships.

Activity Floats

Professor Odeh introduces the types of floats in a construction project including; total float, free float, interfering float and independent float.

Understanding Work Dates and Calendar Dates

In this module, the difference between working dates and calendar dates is explained and how to chart both in a project plan.

Activity on Arrow

Activity on Arrow diagrams are the topic for this module. Professor Odeh will discuss how to draw an activity on arrow diagram and how to number the nodes. Forward and Backward Pass calculations and determining the duration of a project are also covered.

Program Evaluation & Review Technique (PERT) and Range Estimating

The Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) is introduced in this module which relates to uncertainty in estimating the duration of construction activities in a project schedule. PERT helps project managers determine the probability of a project being completed in a certain number of days.

The Role of the Scheduler in Construction Management

Jennifer Buermann, of the STV Group, discusses the role of the scheduler in a construction project and how to determine if a project is on track to meet the estimated goals. Also covered are ways to adjust to ensure the project stays on track.

Linear Construction Operations and Line of Balance

Professor Odeh introduces linear construction; projects that have linear, or repetitive, properties. Also covered is the Line of Balance scheduling method which is a way of allocating resources for repetitive processes.

Technology Applications for Scheduling

Dareen Salama, of the STV Group, discusses the technology applications used for scheduling. Dareen provides an overview of the applications used for scheduling development, schedule analysis, sharing and collaboration and visualization.

Scheduling for Large Programs

Christopher Toomey, Senior Vice President of AECOM Global Programs, discussed scheduling for large programs also known as the Integrated Master Scheduler. Mr. Toomey illustrates how to develop and maintain the Integrated Master Schedule and identifies key features.

Risk Allocation and Planning

Dr. Eduardo Gamez, Deputy Director of Risk Management for AECOM, introduces Risk Allocation and Planning. Dr. Gamez discusses the importance of formal risk management and how to use risk assessment as a support tool for planning and scheduling.

Lean Design in Construction Scheduling

Sam Spata, of MethodLean, discusses lean design and lean scheduling. The concept of Flow is introduced, the process of how to get from the beginning to the end of a project, as a measurable addition of value.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops expertise in the fundamentals of Construction Scheduling, including the likes of bar charts, precedence diagrams, and PERT

Provides a comprehensive study of relationships connecting all construction activities, from start to finish, within a project

Explores traditional scheduling methods (e.g. GANTT, PERT) in a contemporary context with discussion of new technology applications and methodologies commonly used in the field

Builds a solid foundation for students interested in or currently pursuing careers as Construction Schedulers

Offers insights from industry professionals on the role of the scheduler and how to navigate the complexities of scheduling in large programs

Requires some prior knowledge of scheduling concepts and practices. Students without this background may need to supplement their learning

Reviews summary

Valuable construction scheduling

According to students, construction scheduling is a great course. Peer-reviewed assignments and quizzes help learners retain information. Furthermore, the course material is helpful and covers a significant amount of information.

Quizzes test your knowledge.

"If you actually watch the videos, complete the peer reviewed assignments, and take the quizzes, this is a great course."

Engaging assignments help retain knowledge.

"If you actually watch the videos, complete the peer reviewed assignments, and take the quizzes, this is a great course."

Course material is valuable.

"Best teaching material and quiz."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Construction Scheduling with these activities:

Review the principles of construction scheduling

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Refresh your understanding of the foundational principles of construction scheduling before delving into the course.

Browse courses on Construction Scheduling

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Review your notes from previous courses or textbooks on construction scheduling.
Take practice quizzes or complete online exercises to test your knowledge.
Attend a refresher workshop or seminar on construction scheduling.

Review Construction Terminology

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Review basic construction terminology to ensure a strong foundation for understanding course concepts.

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Define key terms related to construction materials, processes, and equipment.
Create a glossary or concept map to organize and reinforce understanding of terms.

Create a collection of resources on construction scheduling

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Gather and organize resources to aid your understanding and future reference on construction scheduling.

Browse courses on Construction Scheduling

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Identify websites, books, articles, and other resources on construction scheduling.
Download or bookmark the resources for future reference.
Organize the resources into a central location, such as a folder or a note-taking app.

Nine other activities

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Activity Precedence Diagramming Tutorial

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Follow online tutorials to gain a practical understanding of creating activity precedence diagrams.

Browse courses on Scheduling Tools

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Identify the steps involved in a construction activity.
Draw an activity precedence diagram using appropriate symbols.
Determine the critical path and float time.

Review Construction Scheduling by James J. O'Brien

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Review this book to gain a solid foundation in construction scheduling concepts and techniques.

View CPM in Construction Management, Eighth Edition on Amazon

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Read through the first three chapters.
Take notes on the key concepts and terms.
Complete the practice exercises at the end of each chapter.

Bar Chart Exercise

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Practice creating and interpreting bar charts to improve understanding of schedule development.

Browse courses on Bar Charts

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Use a template or software to create a simple bar chart for a construction project.
Calculate project duration and identify critical activities.
Discuss the advantages and limitations of bar charts in construction scheduling.

Practice creating forward and backward pass calculations

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Improve your understanding of forward and backward pass calculations through practice drills.

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Find a set of practice problems.
Work through the problems step-by-step.
Check your answers against the provided solutions.

Create a schedule for a small construction project

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Apply the concepts you've learned to a real-world project to solidify your understanding.

Browse courses on Construction Scheduling

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Identify a small construction project that you can work on.
Gather the necessary information about the project, such as the scope of work, the budget, and the timeline.
Develop a schedule for the project using bar charts or activity precedence diagrams.
Monitor the progress of the project and make adjustments to the schedule as needed.

Attend a workshop on construction scheduling

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Enhance your skills and knowledge by attending a construction scheduling workshop led by experts.

Browse courses on Construction Scheduling

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Research and identify relevant construction scheduling workshops.
Register for a workshop that aligns with your learning goals.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and exercises.

Construction Schedule Report

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Create a comprehensive construction schedule report to demonstrate mastery of scheduling techniques.

Browse courses on Scheduling

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Gather project information, including activities, durations, and dependencies.
Develop a bar chart and activity precedence diagram.
Calculate critical path, float time, and project timeline.
Analyze the schedule for potential risks and mitigation strategies.
Present the schedule report to stakeholders.

Volunteer to mentor a student in construction scheduling

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Reinforce your understanding by sharing your knowledge and skills as a mentor to a student in construction scheduling.

Browse courses on Construction Scheduling

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Contact your local university or trade school to inquire about volunteer mentoring opportunities.
Meet with the student regularly to provide guidance and support.
Review the student's work and provide feedback.

Develop a construction schedule for a large-scale project

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Challenge yourself by undertaking a large-scale construction scheduling project to apply your knowledge and skills comprehensively.

Browse courses on Construction Scheduling

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Identify a large-scale construction project that you can work on.
Gather the necessary information about the project, such as the scope of work, the budget, and the timeline.
Develop a schedule for the project using bar charts or activity precedence diagrams.
Monitor the progress of the project and make adjustments to the schedule as needed.

Career center

Learners who complete Construction Scheduling will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Construction Scheduler

A Construction Scheduler develops the project schedule and works closely with the project manager and other team members to monitor the project's progress. The Construction Scheduler must have extensive knowledge of scheduling principles and techniques, which makes this a perfect course for anyone in the field. This course covers all the most critical aspects of construction scheduling, including bar (Gantt) and activity precedence diagrams, and the all-important critical path. The Construction Scheduler who takes this course will be able to develop and manage schedules that help ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Scheduler

Construction Manager

Construction Managers lead the successful development and completion of infrastructure and building projects. A Construction Manager typically oversees a project from start to finish, working closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders. This course covers foundational information that every Construction Manager should know, including an overview of scheduling, the types of construction activity relationships, forward and backward pass calculations, critical path, and project float. Construction Managers who take this course will not only learn the fundamentals of scheduling, they will gain practical skills such as how to create bar charts, precedence diagrams, and how to determine float.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Manager

Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design, build, and maintain the infrastructure and buildings that we rely on every day. Civil Engineers are responsible for planning, designing, constructing, and maintaining roads, bridges, buildings, airports, and other structures. This is a foundational course for Civil Engineers as scheduling is a critical part of completing projects on time and within budget. Civil Engineers who take this course will develop essential skills, including how to develop and manage a schedule, how to identify a project's critical path, and how to calculate project float.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer

Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for the planning, execution, and completion of a project. Project Managers typically have a strong understanding of project management principles and techniques. This course will help Project Managers understand scheduling, one of the most critical aspects of effective project management. Project Managers who take this course will learn how to develop and manage a schedule, how to identify a project's critical path, and how to calculate project float. They will also learn how to use a variety of scheduling tools and techniques to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Construction Superintendent

Construction Superintendents oversee the day-to-day activities on a construction project. They are responsible for ensuring that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course is ideal for Construction Superintendents who want to develop a strong understanding of scheduling. The course will teach Construction Superintendents how to develop and manage a schedule, how to identify a project's critical path, and how to calculate project float. They will also learn how to use a variety of scheduling tools and techniques to keep projects on track.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Superintendent

Construction Estimator

Construction Estimators determine the cost of construction projects. They work closely with architects, engineers, and other stakeholders to develop a detailed estimate of the materials, labor, and other costs associated with a project. This is a a great course for Construction Estimators who want to learn more about scheduling. The course will teach Construction Estimators how to develop and manage a schedule, how to identify a project's critical path, and how to calculate project float. They will also learn how to use a variety of scheduling tools and techniques to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Estimator

Architectural Drafter

Architectural Drafters create detailed drawings and plans for buildings and other structures. They work closely with architects and engineers to ensure that the plans are accurate and meet all building codes and regulations. Architectural Drafters who take this course will learn the basics of scheduling, which can be helpful for coordinating with other team members and ensuring that projects are completed on time.

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Land Surveyor

Land Surveyors measure and map the Earth's surface. They work with engineers, architects, and other professionals to plan and design construction projects. Land Surveyors who take this course will learn the basics of scheduling, which can be helpful for planning and coordinating surveys.

See salaries and explore the career path for Land Surveyor

Quantity Surveyor

Quantity Surveyors estimate the cost of construction projects and manage the procurement of materials. They work closely with architects, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. This course may be helpful for Quantity Surveyors who want to learn more about scheduling.

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Structural Engineer

Structural Engineers design and analyze the structural elements of buildings and other structures. They work closely with architects and other engineers to ensure that structures are safe and meet all building codes and regulations. Structural Engineers who take this course will learn the basics of scheduling, which can be helpful for planning and coordinating engineering work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Structural Engineer

Civil Engineering Technician

Civil Engineering Technicians assist Civil Engineers in the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure and buildings. They work closely with Civil Engineers and other professionals to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. Civil Engineering Technicians who take this course will learn the basics of scheduling, which can be helpful for coordinating with other team members and ensuring that projects are completed on time.

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Construction Laborer

Construction Laborers perform a variety of tasks on construction sites, including excavation, concrete work, and carpentry. This course may be helpful for Construction Laborers who want to learn more about scheduling, which can be helpful for coordinating with other team members and ensuring that projects are completed on time.

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Construction Welder

Construction Welders join metal components together using welding techniques. They work closely with other construction workers to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. This course may be helpful for Construction Welders who want to learn more about scheduling, which can be helpful for coordinating with other team members and ensuring that projects are completed on time.

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Construction Electrician

Construction Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in buildings and other structures. They work closely with other construction workers to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. This course may be helpful for Construction Electricians who want to learn more about scheduling, which can be helpful for coordinating with other team members and ensuring that projects are completed on time.

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Construction Plumber

Construction Plumbers install and maintain plumbing systems in buildings and other structures. They work closely with other construction workers to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. This course may be helpful for Construction Plumbers who want to learn more about scheduling, which can be helpful for coordinating with other team members and ensuring that projects are completed on time.

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