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.