Publications

9.1 Software Tool Kit for a Tutorial

Task dependencies allow us to define the relation of tasks to each other and their effect on the start or completion of other tasks. Tasks can take any of the following dependencies (as described in subsection 4.2 of this e-Handbook).

• Finish-start: Task A must be completed before task B can begin (this is the most common link).
• Finish-finish: Task B must be completed before task C can be completed.
• Start-finish: Task B must be started before task D can be completed.
• Start-start: Task D must be started before task C can be started.

Dependencies can be created in OpenProj using either the "Gantt view" or the "Tasks view." The Gantt view is easy and intuitive to use, but only creates finish-start dependencies while the Tasks view provides greater detail and control over the type of dependency.

For this exercise you will need the OpenProj file that you created under "Entering Tasks and Task Durations" (subsection 9.1.3) Open that file to begin the exercise. Follow these steps to using the Gantt view:

1. Click on the Gantt icon found on the left menu or click on "View->Gantt" on the top menu. Then expand the left side ("Tasks listing") of the interface to reveal the "Predecessors" column.
   
   
   
2. To create a finish-start dependency in the Gantt view, type in the activity number in the Predecessors column. An arrow will appear linking the two tasks. Create the following dependencies on your exercise file.
   1. second task to first task, and
   2. third task to second task
   
   
   
3. If editing is required, go back to the corresponding box and make necessary changes.
4. In creating interdependent tasks, knowledge of the activity sequence required for project implementation is essential, in order to have logically interdependent tasks organized in successor-predecessor relationships.