Improving CPM's accuracy using learning curves

Errors in using the commonly used critical path method (CPM) for scheduling have resulted in projects not being completed on time and costs running over budget. One of the greatest challenges facing a project manager is in estimating the time required for a new employee to complete a task, or a seasoned worker to complete a new task. The Learning Curve Effect is the time it takes a worker to get up to speed on performing a new job. A simple adaptation to the CPM method will ensure accurate cost and time estimates taking the learning curve into account. The adapted procedure described is a simplified version of the Dynamic PERT method. By incorporating the Learning Curve Effect, project managers can better estimate the time, and ultimately the cost of a project.