What technique involves performing sequential tasks in parallel?

• A. Fast tracking
• B. Resource leveling
• C. Cost sinking
• D. Crashing

Answer: (A)

The technique that involves performing sequential tasks in parallel is known as fast tracking. Fast tracking is a schedule compression technique where tasks that were originally planned to be executed in sequence are instead performed simultaneously to reduce the overall project duration. This approach is particularly useful when a project is falling behind schedule and the project manager is looking for ways to catch up without increasing costs significantly.

When tasks are fast-tracked, careful consideration must be given to ensure that this does not lead to coordination issues or quality problems, as parallel execution can increase complexity and the potential for rework. This technique is typically suitable when the tasks in question can be carried out simultaneously without interfering with one another.

The other options, while they are project management techniques, do not involve executing sequential tasks in parallel. For example, resource leveling focuses on addressing the availability of resources to avoid over-allocation, cost sinking pertains to irrecoverable costs that cannot impact project decisions, and crashing involves adding additional resources to shorten the schedule but does not inherently involve parallel execution of sequential tasks. Therefore, fast tracking stands out as the correct answer.