Lead is the amount of time a successor activity can start before the predecessor activity is fully completed. It allows tasks to overlap, speeding up project timelines by optimizing dependencies.
Key Aspects of Lead
- Accelerates Successor Activities – Enables work to start earlier, reducing schedule duration.
- Common in Fast-Tracking – Helps compress project timelines by allowing parallel work.
- Opposite of Lag – Instead of delaying, lead brings tasks forward.
- Impacts Critical Path – Adjusting lead times influences project scheduling and float.
Example Scenarios
Software Development
- Scenario: Frontend development can begin before backend API completion.
- Lead Applied: 2 weeks overlap where UI design starts while backend is still in progress.
Construction Project
- Scenario: Interior painting can start before all drywall installation is complete.
- Lead Applied: 5-day overlap between finishing sections of drywall and beginning painting.
Event Planning
- Scenario: Marketing campaign can start before finalizing event logistics.
- Lead Applied: 3-week head start on social media promotions while venue selection is underway.
Why Lead Matters
- Speeds Up Project Completion – Enables overlapping tasks to reduce total duration.
- Supports Schedule Compression – Critical for fast-tracking methodologies.
- Improves Resource Utilization – Reduces idle time and maximizes efficiency.
- Optimizes Dependency Management – Provides flexibility in project sequencing.
See also: Lag, Critical Path, Schedule Dependencies, Fast Tracking.