Base120 · Decomposition

Critical Path Unwinding

DE · Decomposition

Trace longest sequence of dependent tasks determining minimum project duration

Model code
DE19
Transformation
DE (Decomposition) — Break problems into factors, layers, and independent subproblems.
Priority
19 of 20
Framework
HUMMBL Base120 — 120 mental models across 6 transformations

When to use

"Use when a project has dependent tasks and you need to find the minimum duration. Identify the critical path — the longest sequence of dependent tasks. Any delay on the critical path delays the project."

Example

"A construction project — foundation (10 days) -> framing (15 days) -> roofing (5 days) is the critical path (30 days). Electrical and plumbing can run in parallel with framing. Speeding up electrical does not reduce total time; only speeding up the critical path does."

Common misuse

"Optimizing non-critical tasks and expecting the project to finish faster. Only critical path tasks affect total duration. Non-critical tasks have slack and can be delayed without affecting the project."

Also known as

Critical Path MethodCPM

Related models

DE8DE12IN9