Understanding the Retrospective Longest Path

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In one of our earlier videos I discussed the Critical Path. The Critical Path is made up of the activities which need to start and finish as planned to avoid delays to the completion date. So, when would it be valuable to look at the Critical Path retrospectively?

The Retrospective Longest Path Method is one of six delay methodologies we can use to identify and assess project delays.

The Retrospective Longest Path is the As-Built Record of the actual critical path activities. We establish the Retrospective Longest Path by looking at the actual progress information recorded during the delivery of the project, identify the Critical Path and changes to the Critical Path, and then use this to build up the sequence of events as they occurred.

This method of delay assessment requires good record keeping and regular updates of project schedules that include good progress information. A comprehensive Retrospective Longest Path analysis will be supported by a good narrative on the events that have occurred. If project schedules and reporting is not carried out comprehensively during the delivery of the project, this method can be time consuming in its preparation and validation.

However, as it relies on actual facts, and demonstrates the actual sequence of works, it is one that in hindsight can be easily understood and comprehended.

At times the challenge with the Retrospective Longest Path Method, is that it does come with the benefit of hindsight. This can be difficult, particularly when identifying assessing delays under contracts which require the delay to be considered at the time the delay is occurring. When this is the case, another delay methodology, the Time Impact Analysis, can be used to identify and assess delays.

I will introduce you to the Time Impact Analysis Method in Core Project Advisory’s next video, so make sure to subscribe or follow Core Project Advisory on LinkedIn or YouTube.

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