American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which technique is primarily used to identify key steps that keep construction projects moving forward?

1. Critical Path Programming

2. Cost-Benefit Analysis

3. Program Evaluation and Review Techniques (PERT)

4. Management by Objectives (MBO)

The correct answer is: Critical Path Programming

The technique primarily used to identify key steps that keep construction projects moving forward is Critical Path Programming. This method focuses on determining the longest stretch of dependent activities and measuring the time required to complete them from start to finish. By identifying the critical path, project managers can prioritize tasks that directly impact the overall project duration, ensuring that any delays in these key activities are addressed promptly to keep the project on schedule. Critical Path Programming is vital in construction management as it allows planners to visualize project timelines, allocate resources effectively, and make informed decisions regarding scheduling. It emphasizes the importance of timing and resource allocation, which are crucial in ensuring that construction projects progress without unnecessary delays. While the other options, such as Cost-Benefit Analysis, PERT, and Management by Objectives, have their own functions in project management and evaluation, they do not specifically focus on the continuous movement of construction projects through the identification of critical tasks and timelines. Cost-Benefit Analysis evaluates the economic feasibility of a project, PERT provides probabilistic estimates for project timelines, and Management by Objectives centers around goal-setting and performance management rather than the direct management of project workflows.