Which of the following is NOT a technique that allows managers to plan, schedule, and control projects?

• A. Gantt charts
• B. PERT
• C. CPM
• D. Factor-rating method

Answer: (D)

The factor-rating method is primarily used for decision-making in selecting among alternatives based on a set of criteria. It involves assigning weights to various factors and scoring different alternatives to facilitate comparison. While it is a valuable tool in operations management for evaluating options such as location selection or vendor assessment, it does not specifically focus on planning, scheduling, or controlling projects.

In contrast, Gantt charts, PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique), and CPM (Critical Path Method) are all methodologies designed specifically to aid project management. Gantt charts visually represent project schedules, showing tasks along a timeline. PERT is used for analyzing the time required to complete each task and determining the minimum time needed to complete a project. CPM, on the other hand, focuses on the longest path of scheduled activities and helps in determining task dependencies and managing timelines.

Understanding these distinctions clarifies why the factor-rating method does not fit alongside the other techniques, which are directly linked to project planning and control.