Process: Plan Schedule Management
Process Group: Planning
Knowledge Area: Project Schedule Management
Purpose
The Plan Schedule Management process defines the policies, procedures, and documentation for planning, developing, managing, executing, and controlling the project schedule. It results in the Schedule Management Plan, which guides all schedule-related decisions and actions throughout the project lifecycle.
Inputs
- Project Charter – Provides summary milestones and constraints that influence schedule planning.
- Project Management Plan – Especially the scope management, development approach, and project lifecycle details.
- Enterprise Environmental Factors (EEFs) – Scheduling tools, organizational culture, and industry standards.
- Organizational Process Assets (OPAs) – Historical project data, standard templates, and scheduling policies.
Tools and Techniques
- Expert Judgment – Drawn from those experienced in similar scheduling efforts or familiar with organizational processes.
- Data Analysis – Includes alternatives analysis to evaluate scheduling strategies and methodologies.
- Meetings – Planning sessions with the project team and key stakeholders to agree on schedule methods and controls.
Outputs
- Schedule Management Plan – A component of the project management plan that includes:
- Scheduling methodology
- Level of accuracy and units of measure
- Schedule maintenance and update rules
- Reporting formats and frequency
- Control thresholds
- Roles and responsibilities for schedule management
Role in the Process Group and Knowledge Area
- As part of the Planning Process Group, this process establishes the foundation for developing and managing the schedule.
- Within Project Schedule Management, it ensures that scheduling is consistent, realistic, and integrated with other planning activities.
Why It Matters
- Enables Consistency – Ensures all scheduling efforts follow the same structure and standards.
- Supports Realistic Planning – Defines how the schedule will be created and controlled based on project context.
- Improves Communication – Sets expectations for schedule reports and status updates.
- Facilitates Control – Establishes baseline procedures for identifying and managing schedule changes.