Final answer:
A Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) chart is the tool a project manager uses to convert task start and finish times to actual dates and effectively manage a project's schedule.
Step-by-step explanation:
A project manager can convert task start and finish times to actual dates by laying out the entire project on a calendar using a Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) chart.
The PERT chart is specifically designed to display the tasks involved in project completion along with their corresponding timelines.
It is an essential tool for project planning and time management, helping in the visualization of tasks' sequences and durations, which enables managers to identify the critical path and forecast project timelines accurately.
Unlike other chart types such as the XY chart, pedigree chart, and scatter chart, the PERT chart incorporates calculated start and finish dates for project tasks, representing them sequentially and often with interdependencies shown among tasks. This facilitates effective project scheduling and time management.
Engineered for project managers dealing with complex tasks and tight deadlines, the PERT chart ensures projects are completed on time.
Three commonly used types of graphs are:
- Pie Graphs: Suitable for displaying data in percentages, showing how a whole is divided.
- Bar Graphs: Useful for comparing quantitative data across different categories.
- Line Graphs: Ideal for depicting trends over time, often used for data that changes continuously.
While selecting a graph type, various factors should be considered to ensure the correct representation and interpretation of data.