Gantt charts are a key component for many project managers who are responsible for the efficient coordination of multiple projects that have related tasks. In even the simplest of projects, PMs want to be able to easily manage and oversee all phases of their project in order to ensure successful completion. Here is some gantt chart terminology you need to know.
We’ve noticed that when starting to using Gantt charts, the terminology creation of task relationships can often be difficult to remember so we’ve compiled a quick “cheat sheet” list of different types of task scheduling components that are available to you when using Gantt charts and what they look like in OneDesk.
Task Relationship Types a.k.a. Dependencies
The specific order in which tasks must be performed. Most Gantt charts let you link tasks so that they are dependent on each other. These are the 3 primary relationship types and how they appear in OneDesk.
Gantt chart terminology – relationship types
FS (Finish to Start) – A task that cannot start before the completion of its preceding task
SS (Start to Start) – A Task that cannot start until its predecessor starts. Usually these will start together, however the dependent task may start later.
FF (Finish to Finish) – A task that is scheduled to finish at the same time as the preceding task.
Additionally, the Gantt view allows you to view the planned schedule versus the actual schedule in blue and green respectively. This is a beneficial project management feature as it allows you to view openings in your schedule. Furthermore, darker blues represent having multiple tasks planned on the same days.