D

date constraints

There are three types of date constraints:

• No earlier than This constraint specifies that a task may happen any time after a specific date, but not earlier than the given date.

• No later than This constraint is deadline orientated. The task must be completed by this date or else.

• On this date This constraint is the most time orientated. There is no margin for adjustment as the task must be completed on this date, no sooner or later.

decision tree analysis

A type of analysis that determines which of two decisions is best. The decision tree assists in calculating the value of the decision and determining which decision costs the least.

decoder

This is a part of the communications model; it is the inverse of the encoder. If a message is encoded, a decoder translates it back to a usable format.

Delphi Technique

A method to query experts anonymously on foreseeable risks within the project, phase, or component of the project. The results of the survey are analyzed and organized and then circulated to the experts. There can be several rounds of anonymous discussions with the Delphi Technique The goal is to gain consensus on project risks, and the anonymous nature of the process ensures that no one expert s advice overtly influences the opinion of another participant.

demotivators

An element of Herzberg s theory that employees are motivated or demotivated by effects within an organization. The demotivators are actually the expected benefits a company has to offer, such as insurance, vacation time, and other benefits. The presence of these elements is expected by the motivation seekers and only their absence has a negative impact.

design of experiments

This relies on statistical what-if scenarios to determine which variables within a project will result in the best outcome. It can also be used to eliminate a defect. The design of experiments approach is most often used on the product of the project, rather than the project itself.

detailed variance reports

A summary of any variances within the project.

directive decision-making process

The project manager makes the decision with little or no input from the project team. Directive decision making is acceptable, and needed, in some instances, but it isolates the project manager from the project team.

discretionary dependencies

The preferred order of activities. Project managers should adhere to the order at their discretion and should document the logic behind the ordering. Discretionary dependencies have activities happen in a preferred order because of best practices, conditions unique to the project work, or external events. This is also known as soft logic.