Analysis of the Beta Distribution Assumption in the Pert Algorithm

Abstract

In order to validate the assumption of beta distributed activity durations in the PERT algorithm, a study has been performed using three typical distributions: uniform, normal, and exponential. Random data were generated according to each of the three distributions to represent activity durations in three textbook example networks. The chosen networks had significant interaction between activities and numerous possible critical paths. PERT analyses were performed using two methods: (1) the true duration means and variances for each activity were used, and (2) the means and variances used were calculated assuming that the durations followed a beta distribution. The results of the two methods were compared to determine the similarity between the critical paths, the expected project durations, the project duration variances, and the durations required to give 95% probability that a project would be completed on schedule. The study was performed assuming that every activity in the network followed the same distribution. The results showed that there were variations in all areas analyzed. The average difference at the 95% confidence level was 8.75% for the uniform distribution, 3.62% for the normal distribution, and 16.12% for the exponential distribution.

Notes

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Graduation Date

1990

Semester

Fall

Advisor

Hosni, Yasser A.

Degree

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Engineering

Department

Industrial Engineering and Management Systems

Format

PDF

Pages

86 p.

Language

English

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

Identifier

DP0027249

Subjects

Dissertations, Academic -- Engineering; Engineering -- Dissertations, Academic

Accessibility Status

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