In project management, task dependencies establish relationships between tasks, dictating the order in which they should be completed. One common type of task dependency is the finish-to-start (FS) dependency, which specifies that a successor task cannot begin until its predecessor task is finished. This article explores the concept of finish-to-start dependencies in Microsoft Project, discussing their implications for project scheduling and how to create and manage them effectively.
Key Facts
- Task Dependency: Finish to start is a type of task dependency that establishes a relationship between two tasks in a project.
- Predecessor and Successor: In a finish to start dependency, the predecessor task is the task that needs to be completed before the successor task can start.
- Scheduling: When you link tasks with a finish to start dependency, any changes made to the predecessor task will affect the scheduling of the successor task.
- Default Link: Microsoft Project creates a simple finish to start task link by default, meaning that the predecessor task must finish before the successor task can start.
- Task Linking: You can link tasks in MS Project by selecting the tasks you want to link and choosing the “Link Tasks” option.
- Changing Link Type: You can change the type of task dependency from finish to start to other types, such as start to start or finish to finish, in the Task Information dialog box.
- Autolinking: MS Project has an autolinking feature that automatically links newly inserted tasks to surrounding tasks based on their dependencies.
- Removing Dependencies: You can easily change or remove task dependencies in MS Project by modifying the link type, selecting a different task to link to, or unlinking tasks.
Understanding Finish to Start Dependencies
In a finish-to-start dependency, the predecessor task must be completed before the successor task can commence. This dependency ensures that the successor task does not start until all the necessary prerequisites from the predecessor task have been fulfilled. For example, in a construction project, the task of pouring concrete for a foundation must be completed before the task of erecting the walls can begin.
Scheduling Implications
Finish-to-start dependencies have a significant impact on project scheduling. When tasks are linked with finish-to-start dependencies, any changes to the predecessor task’s schedule will affect the scheduling of the successor task. If the predecessor task is delayed, the successor task will also be delayed accordingly. This cascading effect can impact the overall project timeline and resource allocation.
Creating Finish to Start Dependencies
In Microsoft Project, finish-to-start dependencies can be created using the following steps:
- Open the project in Microsoft Project.
- Select the two tasks you want to link.
- Click the “Task” tab in the ribbon.
- In the “Dependencies” group, click the “Link Tasks” button.
- In the “Link Tasks” dialog box, select the “Finish to Start” option.
- Click “OK” to create the dependency.
Changing or Removing Dependencies
Finish-to-start dependencies can be changed or removed as needed. To change the dependency type, double-click on the link line between the two tasks and select the desired dependency type from the “Type” drop-down list. To remove a dependency, select the link line and press the “Delete” key.
Conclusion
Finish-to-start dependencies are a fundamental aspect of project scheduling in Microsoft Project. By understanding how to create and manage these dependencies effectively, project managers can ensure that tasks are completed in the correct order and that the project timeline is maintained.
References
- Microsoft Support: Link Tasks in a Project (https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/link-tasks-in-a-project-31b918ce-4b71-475c-9d6b-0ee501b4be57)
- Super User: How to force one task to start immediately after another task finishes in Microsoft Project? (https://superuser.com/questions/386530/how-to-force-one-task-to-start-immediately-after-another-task-finishes-in-micros)
- Microsoft Project Task Dependencies handout (https://www.iow.nhs.uk/Downloads/Education%20Centre/Development%20and%20Training/MS%20Office/Project/Microsoft%20Project%20Task%20Dependencies%20handout.pdf)
FAQs
What is a finish-to-start dependency in MS Project?
A finish-to-start dependency specifies that a successor task cannot begin until its predecessor task is finished.
Why are finish-to-start dependencies important?
Finish-to-start dependencies ensure that tasks are completed in the correct order and that the project timeline is maintained.
How do I create a finish-to-start dependency in MS Project?
To create a finish-to-start dependency, select the two tasks you want to link, click the “Task” tab, click the “Link Tasks” button, select the “Finish to Start” option, and click “OK.”
How do I change or remove a finish-to-start dependency?
To change the dependency type, double-click on the link line between the two tasks and select the desired dependency type. To remove a dependency, select the link line and press the “Delete” key.
What is the default task link type in MS Project?
The default task link type in MS Project is finish-to-start.
Can I change the default task link type?
Yes, you can change the default task link type in the Project Options dialog box.
What is autolinking in MS Project?
Autolinking is a feature in MS Project that automatically links newly inserted tasks to surrounding tasks based on their dependencies.
Can I turn off autolinking?
Yes, you can turn off autolinking in the Project Options dialog box.