Project Planning Handbook

Overview

Project planning is the process of defining project objectives, scope, schedule, budget, resources, and risks. A solid plan is the foundation for project success.

Phase Planning Outputs WBS, Schedule, Budget, Risk Register Tools Gantt, CPM, PERT

Key Planning Activities

Scope Definition — What is included and excluded
WBS (Work Breakdown Structure) — decompose deliverables into work packages
Schedule Development — sequence activities, estimate durations, critical path
Resource Planning — identify and assign team members, tools, materials
Budget Estimation — cost estimates, contingency reserves
Risk Planning — identify, analyze, and plan risk responses
Communication Plan — who gets what information, how often
Quality Plan — standards, reviews, acceptance criteria

Scheduling Techniques

Technique	Description
Gantt Chart	Bar chart showing tasks against timeline
Critical Path Method (CPM)	Identifies the longest path — determines minimum project duration
PERT	Probabilistic estimates: (O + 4M + P) / 6
Sprint Planning (Agile)	Select backlog items for iteration delivery
Resource Leveling	Adjust schedule to resolve resource over-allocation

Risk Management Process

Identify Risks — brainstorming, checklists, SWOT
Qualitative Analysis — probability × impact matrix
Quantitative Analysis — EMV (Expected Monetary Value), Monte Carlo
Risk Response Strategies:
- Threats: Avoid, Transfer, Mitigate, Accept
- Opportunities: Exploit, Share, Enhance, Accept
Monitor & Control Risks — track residual and secondary risks

Common Interview Topics

How to create a WBS
Critical path calculation with network diagram
Float (slack) — total float vs free float
Fast tracking vs crashing a schedule
Stakeholder communication planning
Baseline vs actual vs forecast in project tracking

📅 Project Planning Handbook

Overview

Key Planning Activities

Scheduling Techniques

Risk Management Process

Common Interview Topics