Both of these project management tools can be produced manually or with commercially available project management software. PERT is a planning and control tool used for defining and controlling the tasks necessary to complete a project. Both charts display the total project with all scheduled tasks shown in sequence. The displayed tasks show which ones are in parallel, those tasks that can be performed at the same time. The tool uses graphic representations to show start, elapsed, and completion times of each task within a project.
Gantt charts are ideal for tracking progress.
The number of days actually required to complete a task that reaches a milestone can be compared with the planned or estimated number. The actual work days, from actual start to actual finish, are plotted below the scheduled days. This information helps target potential timeline slippage or failure points. These charts serve as a valuable budgeting tool and can show dollars allocated versus dollars spent. A Gantt chart example is provided below.