What is ‘fast tracking’ in scheduling?

Fast tracking is a scheduling technique that involves overlapping tasks in order to shorten the overall project duration. This approach allows for certain tasks that would normally be completed sequentially to occur simultaneously, as long as it is feasible and does not compromise the project's integrity or quality. By adjusting the project schedule to allow for this overlap, project managers can potentially expedite completion times and enhance efficiency.

This technique is particularly useful when deadlines are tight, and there is a need to accelerate the project without adding additional resources. However, it's important to recognize the potential risks associated with fast tracking, such as increased complexity, potential for miscommunication, and the likelihood of managing more dependencies simultaneously, which can lead to conflicts or rework.

In contrast to this approach, methods that involve slowing down tasks, ensuring sequential completion, or simply delegating tasks do not effectively capture the essence of fast tracking. Each of those options does not prioritize overlapping activities as a means of project acceleration, which is the defining characteristic of fast tracking in the context of project management and scheduling.