Using a timeline you will be able to deliver a project in a reasonable time span.The key is to break down your project "deliverables" into smaller chunks. Examine the time needed for each task, put them in the correct sequence then you can estimate the delivery date realistically, claims the business2community.com website.
Create a list of tasks and assign them
First, you need to have the scope approved by your stakeholders. Next step is to prepare a comprehensive list of tasks that are needed for each single deliverable. Each task must be also be assigned to someone. The task can be done by you or someone from your team.
Estimating time
When you have trouble estimating the time need for a task, try to break the task down into smaller components. The time needed for each subtask should be easier for you to estimate. It is a good idea to also break down the tasks that are going to take longer than one reporting period. When progress is reported on a weekly basis and there is a task on your list that takes longer than a week, you need to break it down in order to be able to keep track properly.
Visualizing the timeline: Gantt chart
An ideal way to visualize your project schedule are Gantt charts. Start with arranging the tasks into a logical order. Include how long each task will take. Next step is to ad links to the tasks in case one needs to be completed before another one can start. You will probably see that some tasks aren't dependent on any others. These tasks can be carried out anytime. Other tasks can run parallel with others. Both types of tasks help you to shorten the overall timeline. Then you need to look at how people fit into your timeline. You may need to rearrange the schedule if you have several tasks for the one person at the same time.
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