Are you curious about the Gantt chart? You’ve arrived at the right place. In this article, we’ll go over the chart’s key components and how you can use them to improve your project management.
Karol Adamiecki, a Polish engineer, invented the Gantt chart in the 1980s. He desired an efficient method for working with steel, and this chart enabled him to create a better system. Henry Gantt popularized the chart nearly two decades later, hence the official name. Since then, the Gantt chart has influenced much modern project management software.
The chart is described by TeamGantt as “…a horizontal bar chart that visually represents a project plan over time.” Modern Gantt charts typically show the status of each task in the project, as well as who is in charge of it.”
This project-planning tool allows you to break down a project into practical steps and solutions on a day-by-day, task-by-task basis. Previously, the chart would be handwritten. While still effective, this was time-consuming and laborious. There are platforms and software available today that make it possible.
The Gantt chart advantage of project coordination and leadership gives managers the ability to successfully execute their goals through an organized and intentional strategy.
How Does a Gantt Chart Work?
Your Gantt chart advantage begins with a basic understanding of the components required to make it work.
There are numerous symbols, arrows, and other useful tools you can use to develop the flow in the chart, as evidenced by comparing different versions of the chart and using the software. However, in this section, we’ll look at the conceptual components that enable project management.
Dates and Timelines
By far the most useful feature is the way the Gantt chart uses its calendar to put the project into context. Professionals can gain a visual understanding of what needs to be done and when by organizing it by day. The calendar functions similarly to a flowing timesheet, with each phase of the project documented based on the estimated number of days required to complete it.
Tasks
The calendar will be used to organize each task. When you input each important phase and element, the Gantt chart advantage allows you to see it all in one place and assess how long it will take to complete it.
The bars are one of the most distinguishing features of the Gantt chart. Each bar represents a task, and its length corresponds to the number of days it will take. Each date is labeled, and the bars indicate that one task will take Tuesday and Wednesday to complete, for example.
Dependencies & Arrows
Not all tasks are black and white. Some must be completed concurrently or before the next one. A successful strategy can be planned using arrows and inputs to include dependencies.
Tracking
Tracking a project’s progress is critical to its success. The Gantt chart makes use of shading to indicate the status of a task. When combined with the dates and timeline feature, this enables managers to see the big picture and determine whether they’re on track.
Milestones
These are the big moments, the benchmarks that tell managers whether or not their project is on track. The Gantt chart uses diamonds or similar symbols to indicate the status of these tasks as an important indicator of the project’s health. A project may require many small tasks to complete, but the milestone is the rewarding line that every professional strives to cross.
Team Members Who Are Accountable
A good manager understands that nothing can be accomplished unless a specific person is held accountable. The Gantt chart allows professionals to indicate who will complete the task and other pertinent information.
The Advantages and Benefits of Using a Gantt Chart
You can see the project in your head.
One of the most difficult aspects of a critical project is the overwhelming sense of being able to achieve your goal. Many small steps add up to serious consequences. A large project becomes possible once you can see everything in one place, visually organized.
Each task and its components are distinct.
It can be difficult to communicate with a team or your superiors about what is going on. When everything is documented and in one place, everyone can see what needs to be done to improve the project.
You can divide the timeline as needed.
When you can organize by day, month, and week, you can create a schedule that fits the tasks at hand.
It is simpler to manage a team.
Managing a team becomes much more effective when roles, expectations, and goals can be assigned. A team has access to the chart as well, which makes it easier for them to carry out their responsibilities.
The project’s status is clear.
In a team, clarity and communication are critical. Everyone is on the same page when the project is visualized on a chart.
The end result is visible.
When a task is completed, it is noted on the chart, making project statuses and milestones readily available. When a team knows if they are on time, they can effectively measure their results.
Excellent for meetings.
Have you ever struggled to explain a project to someone? The Gantt chart is the “all-in-one” tool you’ll want to use at your next presentation.
Choosing the Best Tool
As we learned from the chart’s various components, many features enable teams to manage projects. There are several excellent traditional Gantt charts available, as well as modern apps that have used the model to create fantastic business tools.
Gantt chart software not only allows a team to implement the benefits of the chart, but it also saves time with its quick and productive program and user interface.
There are also excellent templates available if you prefer to do it manually. Take advantage of these free templates!
The Gantt chart is just one method for adding value to your projects and team. Through Simplilearn’s PMP Certification training course, you can become an expert in this and many other processes. We make learning easy and efficient. When you take the course that prepares you for the exam and certification, you will improve your career opportunities and output.
