Estimate Activity Duration

Inputs Tools and Techniques Outputs
  • Activity List
  • Activity Attributes
  • Resource Calendars
  • Project Scope Statement
  • Risk Register
  • Expert Judgment
  • Analogous Estimating
  • Parametric Estimating
  • Three-Point Estimating
  • Activity Duration Estimates
  • Basis of Estimates
  • Project Document Updates

Details:

Activity List: The activity list is a comprehensive list of all the activities required to complete the project. Each activity is identified and described in detail.

Activity Attributes: Activity attributes provide additional information about each activity, such as activity codes, descriptions, predecessors, successors, resource requirements, and constraints.

Resource Calendars: Resource calendars specify the availability of resources over time, including any planned resource vacations, holidays, or other constraints. Understanding resource availability is crucial for estimating activity durations.

Project Scope Statement: The scope statement provides context for the activities and helps in understanding the project objectives, deliverables, constraints, and assumptions, which can impact activity durations.

Risk Register: The risk register contains information about potential risks that may affect the project schedule. Risks can impact activity durations either positively (opportunities) or negatively (threats), and should be considered during estimation.

Expert Judgment: Expert judgment involves consulting with individuals or groups who have expertise in the subject matter or experience with similar projects. Their insights can help in estimating activity durations based on historical data and expert opinion.

Analogous Estimating: Analogous estimating, also known as top-down estimating, involves using historical data from similar projects as a basis for estimating activity durations. This technique is useful when detailed information is not available.

Parametric Estimating: Parametric estimating involves using statistical relationships between historical data and other variables (such as size, weight, or complexity) to estimate activity durations. This technique is more accurate than analogous estimating but requires specific data and parameters.

Three-Point Estimating: Three-point estimating involves using three estimates for each activity: optimistic (O), pessimistic (P), and most likely (M). These estimates are then used to calculate a weighted average, such as the PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) estimate.

Activity Duration Estimates: The activity duration estimates provide the amount of time expected to complete each activity, expressed in hours, days, weeks, or other units of time. These estimates are essential for developing the project schedule.

Basis of Estimates: The basis of estimates document provides the rationale behind the activity duration estimates, including the assumptions made, constraints identified, and any supporting documentation or data used.

Project Document Updates: Updates to project documents may include revisions to the activity list, activity attributes, and resource calendars to reflect the estimated durations for each activity.