Network Analysis Methods

Network Analysis methods is a group of special analytical methods (see analytical techniques) that are used in cases where it is necessary to analyze and optimize a network of inteconnected and related elements that have some connection between one another. The network analysis methods are therefore used in project management where the elements are key activities of the project in the mutual time relation. Another possibility of their use is in the field of logistics and transportation, where the elements represent the center and the dependencies are spatial (also figuratively temporal). The network analysis methods focus on calculating or critical path optimizing between the elements. Among basic network analysis methods include:

• CPM (Critical Path Method)
• CCM (Critical Chain Method)
• PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique)
• GERT
• MPM (Metra Potential Method)

The network analysis methods are related to the concept of network diagram, which is a view of the project as a diagram which expresses various links between the project activities. The network diagrams and network analysis methods are based on the Graph Theory. In project management, network diagrams are used both edge-rated (defined), where the edges of the graph represent the activities of the project and nodes of their connection (or events between activities), and graphs nodal rated (defined), where graph nodes represent the activities and edges represent relations between them.

Use of the network analysis methods:

• Gantt Chart
• Logistics and Transportation
• Project Management
• Project Plan
• Project Schedule

Related methods:

• Analytical techniques
• PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge)
• PRINCE2 (PRojects IN Controlled Environment)
• Space Optimization