Quiz: Schedule Review & Metrics
Test your understanding of schedule reviews, the DCMA 14-Point Assessment, and schedule quality. Select the best answer for each multiple-choice question, then attempt the written questions below.
Part A — Multiple Choice
1The DCMA 14-point assessment is primarily used for:
Correct. The DCMA 14PA is a structured assessment of schedule quality — it evaluates logic, float, constraints, durations, and other structural attributes that determine whether a schedule is reliable and achievable.
Not quite. The DCMA 14PA is focused on evaluating the quality and logic of project schedules — not cost, resources, or communications.
2A project schedule that adheres to the DCMA 14-point assessment is more likely to:
Correct. A schedule that passes the 14PA checks has sound logic, realistic durations, and proper network connectivity — making it a credible and achievable plan.
Not quite. The 14PA improves the structural quality and realism of the schedule — it does not directly control budget, eliminate risk, or remove the need for monitoring.
3Which DCMA point focuses on the overall logic and network connectivity within the schedule?
Correct. The "Logic" check (Point 1 of the 14PA) assesses whether activities have valid predecessors and successors and whether the overall network is intellectually consistent.
Not quite. Network connectivity and overall logic consistency is captured under the Logic point of the 14PA — specifically checking that activities are properly connected throughout the network.
4A high percentage of unfinished tasks with total float exceeding a specific threshold would be a concern according to which DCMA point?
Correct. The High Float check (Point 6) flags activities with excessive total float — typically >44 working days. High float often indicates missing logic, incorrect constraints, or activities that are disconnected from the network.
Not quite. Excessive total float on incomplete tasks is flagged under the High Float point of the 14PA — it signals potential logic gaps or missing successors in the network.
5The DCMA 14-point assessment emphasises the importance of:
Correct. Calendar consistency is a dedicated point in the 14PA. Mixed calendar systems (e.g. working days and calendar days used inconsistently) can produce incorrect float and date calculations across the network.
Not quite. The 14PA specifically checks for calendar consistency — inconsistent use of working days vs. calendar days is a common source of scheduling errors.
Part B — Written Questions
6Briefly explain the concept of "critical path" and its relationship to the DCMA 14-point assessment.
Consider: what defines the critical path, and which 14PA points directly relate to critical path integrity?
7Describe two benefits of using the DCMA 14-point assessment for project schedules.
Think about schedule reliability, early warning, and defensibility.
8A project manager is reviewing a schedule for a new product launch. The schedule uses a mix of working days and calendar days, and some weekend days are included for critical path activities. There are also a few activities with total float exceeding 20 days.
• Identify two DCMA 14-point concerns based on the information provided.
• Explain how each concern could impact the overall schedule reliability.