Definition:
One kind of summary work that spans several dependent activities within a project is a hammock activity. Unlike set-length projects, the length of a hammock activity is adaptable depending on the activities it includes. It is mostly used to track non-discrete efforts, distribute overhead expenses, and compile a set of linked events under a calendar.
Key Aspects:
- Acts as a high-level grouping mechanism for dependent activities.
- Its duration is dynamic and changes based on the start and end dates of linked tasks.
- Commonly used for overhead tasks like administrative work, project management efforts, or quality assurance spanning multiple phases.
- Helps in cost and resource allocation for ongoing project components.
Example:
“Site supervision” in a building project could be a comprehensive exercise covering several independent operations including electrical work, framing and foundation laying.
Conclusion:
Through their summary of related operations without strictly limiting their durations, hammock activities improve project schedule flexibility and expense tracking.
