New technologies emerge daily to facilitate the most diverse processes. In parallel with this new reality, Gantt Charts, developed over a century ago, continue to be a very useful tool in project management. Do you know why?
The tool functions as a detailed calendar, yet it is visually simple and easy to understand. Through it, managers and teams can track project progress, evaluating completion times and delivery deadlines.
In summary, Gantt charts facilitate understanding of the entire process and, consequently, contribute to quality management. Interested in learning more? Follow the post, discover the origin, how it works, and when it's advisable to use this tool!
What is a Gantt Chart and what is its origin?
Also known as a Gantt chart, the tool is named after its creator, engineer and business consultant Henry Gantt.
He took the idea from a previous, more complex version of the diagram, developing a simpler, visual, and easily understandable horizontal bar chart. His goal was to track the work done in factories for avoid delays in the process productive.
Thus, the Chart became an innovation for process management. By allowing the manager a clear view of the time spent and deadlines for each project, it remains a very useful management tool today.
How does a Gantt chart work
The chart can be developed by hand, in Excel, or with the help of software. Through the horizontal bars, it is possible to indicate the start and end dates of the complete project, as well as each stage of the process.
This way, it's possible to track what's being done in each interval, monitor delays and progress, reschedule dates, and gather various other important information for the good management and smooth progress of the project.
Why Use a Gantt Chart
Because it is a very simple and visual tool, the Gantt Chart allows the manager and collaborators to have a good overview of the progress of each process, as well as the project as a whole.
The chart allows for task division, assignment of responsibilities, development tracking, and deadline management. This way, the entire team can view interdependent tasks and monitor dates.
The consequence is greater ease in creating and maintaining a good work rhythm, as well as a collaborative environment for identifying difficulties and opportunities.
When to use a Gantt Chart
As I understand it, a Gantt chart is not a tool for mere time tracking. It enables better management of all developed processes.
Therefore, the Chart can be used in the way already indicated, with tasks and deadlines, or to organize projects, separating them by teams or even by clients.
The idea is to use the tool whenever it's convenient to have simple and easily accessible visual support, aiming to give greater autonomy to those involved and, at the same time, keep them informed about the progress of the entire project.
How to develop a Gantt Chart
As stated, the Graph can be developed using conventional tools, as well as with the support of management software.
No matter how relevant the Gantt tool has remained for tracking various processes since its creation, nothing prevents you and your company from making “upgrades.”.
The important thing is to be able to develop a complete and very visual chart, following its premise and enabling its maximum utilization. Therefore, if possible, it's worth counting on the support of technology to achieve even better results.
Does your company already use Gantt charts? In which areas or projects? Share your experience with us!
Also meet the PDCA Cycle Variations and how they can improve your company's management!
