PERT vs CPM

CPM and PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) are most commonly used
methods for project management. There are some similarities and differences between PERT and
CPM. PERT can be applied to any field requiring planned, controlled and integrated work efforts
to accomplish defined objectives.
On the other hand, CPM (Critical Path Method) is the method of project planning consisting of a
number of well defined and clearly recognizable activities.

PERT/CPM Differences between PERT and CPM
Though PERT and CPM both are used for project management, there are differences between
CPM and PERT. The relative table for PERT vs CPM is shown below.
CPM PERT
CPM uses activity oriented network. PERT uses event oriented Network.
Durations of activity may be estimated with
a fair degree of accuracy.
Estimate of time for activities are not so
accurate and definite.
It is used extensively in construction
projects.
It is used mostly in research and
development projects, particularly projects
of non-repetitive nature.
Deterministic concept is used. Probabilistic model concept is used.
CPM can control both time and cost when
planning.
PERT is basically a tool for planning.
In CPM, cost optimization is given prime
importance. The time for the completion of
the project depends upon cost optimization.
The cost is not directly proportioned to
time. Thus, cost is the controlling factor.
In PERT, it is assumed that cost varies
directly with time. Attention is therefore
given to minimize the time so that minimum
cost results. Thus in PERT, time is the
controlling factor.