Construction Management, Accounts & Entrepreneurship Development

These flashcards are designed to help students understand key concepts in construction management, accounts, and entrepreneurship development in preparation for their upcoming exams.

What does a bar chart represent in project management?

A graphical representation of activity vs time.

Who introduced the bar chart (Gantt chart)?

Henry Gantt in 1917.

What are the advantages of a bar chart?

1. Depicts resource requirements 2. Expresses progress as a percentage 3. Simple to draw 4. Visual representation of project.

What are the limitations of a bar chart?

1. Lack of detail 2. Critical activities not shown 3. Activity inter-relationships not depicted.

When is PERT preferred over CPM?

When the project completion time is unknown.

What does PERT stand for?

Program Evaluation and Review Technique.

What type of distribution does PERT follow for time estimation?

Beta distribution.

What is slack time in project management?

The extra time an activity can be delayed without affecting the overall project timeline.

What are the three time estimates used in PERT?

Optimistic time (t0), Most likely time (tm), Pessimistic time (tp).

What is the expected time formula in PERT?

T_e = (t0 + 4tm + tp) / 6.

What defines the critical path in a sequence of project activities?

The longest path through the project with zero float.

What does total float represent?

The amount of time that an activity can be delayed without impacting the project deadline.

What is the formula for calculating float?

Float = Latest Start Time - Earliest Start Time.

What is the purpose of the critical path method (CPM)?

To identify the longest sequence of dependent activities and to reduce project duration.

What type of projects is CPM best suited for?

Projects that are repetitive in nature.

What does a CPM network typically require?

One time estimate for each activity.

How does PERT differ from CPM?

PERT is event-oriented and accounts for uncertainty, while CPM is activity-oriented and deterministic.

What information does a Gantt chart visually provide?

Comparison of actual progress with scheduled progress.

What is a key disadvantage of Gantt charts?

They do not clearly define the sequence of activities.

What type of estimator is best used under conditions of uncertainty?

PERT.

What denotes the critical path of a project?

A path that has zero total float.

In PERT, what are the three main time estimates?

Optimistic time, most likely time, and pessimistic time.

What does the term 'crashing' mean in project management?

Reducing the duration of a project by allocating additional resources.

How do you calculate the cost slope for crashing an activity?

Cost slope = (Crash cost - Normal cost) / (Normal time - Crash time).

What is the purpose of a milestone chart?

To show events in chronological order without indicating logical relationships.

When can free float become negative?

When the scheduling is significantly impacted by preceding activities.

What type of activities are considered non-critical in project scheduling?

Activities that can be delayed without delaying the entire project.

What is the typical impact of reducing project time on costs?

Increases direct costs while often decreasing indirect costs.

What is the method of measuring earthwork in foundation trenches?

Filling is measured and a deduction is made for settlement.

What's the purpose of the project planning tool known as WBS?

To break down a project into smaller, manageable components.

What is the definition of project scheduling?

Mapping out project tasks, allocating resources, and establishing timelines.

How is activity defined in project management?

An element of work that consumes time and resources.

What is the significance of the bar chart's vertical axis?

It represents the various activities of the project.

In what scenarios are bar charts most effective?

For simple and minor projects.

What is the purpose of a cost-benefit analysis in project management?

To evaluate the viability and worthiness of a project.

What is a critical activity in project management?

An activity that directly impacts project deadline and has zero float.

What is the role of a contractor in construction management?

To execute project tasks according to specifications and manage resources.

What does direct cost refer to in project management?

Costs attributable directly to project work, such as labor and materials.

How is the earliest finish time calculated?

By adding the earliest start time to the duration of the activity.

What is a common use for pneumatic rollers?

Used in both earthwork and bituminous work.

What represents the most important components of project cost?

Direct costs and indirect costs.

What does the process of updating involve in project management?

Incorporating changes and rescheduling tasks based on progress.

Under what circumstances is a milestone chart particularly beneficial?

When illustrating the chronological sequence of project events.

What happens to indirect costs when project duration decreases?

They generally decrease.

What does the term 'sinking fund' refer to?

Funds set aside to pay off a loan or debt.

What is the purpose of a site order book in project management?

To record instructions given by the executive engineer.

What should always follow after a unit of work is completed?

A measurement book entry.

What is the primary role of quality control in project management?

To ensure that project outputs meet specified standards.

What does the term 'float' relate to in project management?

The amount of time an activity can be delayed without affecting the project schedule.

What key concept does the work breakdown structure (WBS) represent?

A hierarchical decomposition of the total scope of work.

What strategy is used in project management to ensure that all tasks are completed on schedule?

Scheduling.

Which type of crane is best for high rise structures?

Tower crane.

Which type of roller is best for compacting cohesive soils?

Sheep foot roller.

What common equipment is used to discharge concrete?

Dumper trucks.

What is defined as the maximum expenditure allowed for safety measures in construction?

Safety budget.

What method is typically used for excavation in underwater scenarios?

Drag line.

Which method of construction is known for its rapid speed and efficiency?

Precast construction.

What is the key reason for changing project scope during execution?

To accommodate unexpected issues or changes in requirements.

How frequently should project performance be monitored?

Regularly, as established in the project timeline.

What does the term 'on schedule' mean in project management?

The project is progressing as per the established timeline.

What principal document describes the project's goals, costs, and timeline?

Project Charter.

What is an essential part of the tendering process?

Submitting a detailed proposal and meeting the criteria outlined in the bid.

What is the concept of 'crashing' in project management?

Reallocating resources to shorten project completion time.

What defines the project phases from initiation to closure?

Project Lifecycle.

What critical factors do project managers consider when planning a construction project?

Cost estimates, timelines, and resource allocation.

What often drives the initial estimation of a project's budget?

Historical data and past project experiences.

What role do safety regulations play in project management?

Ensuring all activities comply with safety standards and protect workers.

What risk management tool evaluates potential impacts on project completion?

Risk Analysis.

What does a critical path method (CPM) diagram typically identify?

Tasks crucial for timely project completion.

What indicates an approval for expenses in construction?

Detailed budgeting and cost control measures.

What are contingencies in project planning?

Allocations for unexpected costs or delays.

What happens when milestones in a project are missed?

Reevaluation of timeline and resources may be needed.

What does monitoring project costs involve?

Keeping track of expenditures against the budget.

What is the purpose of hazard analysis in construction?

Identifying potential hazards and establishing safety protocols.

How is the overall success of a project measured?

By evaluating if it met predetermined criteria such as budget, timeline, and quality.

What does concrete curing involve?

Maintaining adequate moisture and temperature for hydration.

What is the importance of communication in project execution?

Ensuring all stakeholders are informed and aligned on project objectives.

What does labor costing factor into project estimates?

Calculating the total labor expenses involved in completing tasks.

What does project auditing entail?

Reviewing project performance and compliance with regulations.

What is one factor that impacts construction project timelines?

Availability of resources and labor.

What technology is often used in modern construction for efficiency?

Project management software.

What is the impact of weather on construction schedules?

Potential delays and increased costs.

What strategy can help minimize construction costs?

Value engineering.

What is the expected outcome of effective risk management?

Minimized disruption and reduced project risks.

What defines the role of a construction manager?

Oversight and management of all aspects of a construction project.

What is one benefit of using prefabricated materials in construction?

Reduced on-site assembly time.

What does a bidding process entail?

Contractors submitting proposals to win project contracts.

What type of regulations govern labor in construction?

Labor laws and safety standards.

What is the main focus of project design?

To meet client needs while adhering to budget and regulatory constraints.

What is typically evaluated during a project's feasibility study?

Financial viability and potential return on investment.

What does a contractor's liability insurance cover?

Covers potential legal claims resulting from accidents or damages.

What is the significance of detailed project specifications?

To ensure all contractors meet the quality and performance standards required.

What is an example of a quality control measure in construction?

Regular inspections and testing of materials.

What does effective stakeholder engagement involve?

Communicating with and addressing concerns of all parties involved in the project.

What factors contribute to project sustainability?

Resource efficiency, environmental protection, and social responsibility.

What does a bar graph depicting project timeline help visualize?

Progress of tasks relative to their deadlines.

What is an advantage of using project management software?

Enhanced collaboration and data sharing among team members.

What defines the success criteria of a construction project?

Meeting time, cost, and quality expectations.

What factor can lead to cost overruns in construction projects?

Unforeseen changes in project scope.

What is an important aspect of change management in projects?

Documentation of changes and their impacts on project outcomes.