What does 'task dependency' mean in project management?

In project management, 'task dependency' refers to the relationship between tasks where one task is reliant on the completion of another task before it can commence. This is a crucial concept as it affects the sequencing and scheduling of activities within a project. Understanding task dependencies helps project managers to prioritize tasks effectively and identify the critical path, which is the sequence of tasks that dictates the project's overall duration.

By recognizing that certain tasks cannot proceed until others have been finished, project managers can better manage resources, reduce risks associated with delays, and ensure that project timelines are adhered to. Task dependencies are typically categorized into types, such as finish-to-start (where Task B cannot start until Task A is finished), and others, which illustrate the nature of how tasks relate to one another.

The other options focus on tasks being independent, able to be done at any time, or addressing the overall time for multiple tasks, which do not capture the essential nature of task dependency in project management. Understanding this concept is fundamental for effective project planning and scheduling.