Glossary

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activity-on-the-arrow PND

This sophisticated approach stems from the 1950s, when the original concept was called the activity-on-the-arrow (AOA) method. The origin of the arrow is the begin activity sign, and the end of the arrow is the end activity sign.

activity-on-the-node PND

A network diagramming method that allows the project manager to map relationships between activities. With the AON method, the focus is on the activities rather than on the start and end of activities.

actual costs (AC)

Actual costs are used in Earned Value Management and represent the actual cost of the work performed.

administrative closure

This is when the customer or project sponsor documents and accepts the project results. Administrative closure is also needed if a project is terminated .

analogous estimating

This relies on historical information to predict estimates for current projects. Analogous estimating is also known as top-down estimating and is a form of expert judgment.

As Late As Possible (ALAP) constraints

When you specify a task as ALAP, Microsoft Project will schedule the task to occur as late as possible without delaying dependent tasks. This is the default for all new tasks when scheduling tasks from the end date. This constraint is flexible.

As Soon As Possible (ASAP) constraints

When you specify a task as ASAP, Microsoft Project will schedule the task to occur as soon as it can. This is the default for all new tasks when assigning tasks from the start date. This constraint is flexible.

assumptions

Beliefs considered to be true, real, or certain for the sake of planning.

avoidance

This is one response to a risk event. The risk is avoided by planning a different technique to remove the risk from the project.