A Gantt chart also can simplify a complex
project by combining several activities into a task group.
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A Gantt chart can show task status by adding a contrasting color to the horizontal bars.
For example, a vertical arrow marks the current date in Figure 3-6. With a fixed reference
point, it is easy to see that Task 1 is way behind schedule, Task 2 is only about 80 percent
done and is running behind schedule, Task 3 should have started, but no work has been
done, Task 4 actually is running ahead of schedule, and Task 5 will begin in several weeks.
Gantt charts can present an overview of the project’s status, but they do not provide
enough detailed information, which is necessary when managing a complex project.
Most project managers find that PERT/CPM charts, which are discussed in the following
section, are better tools for managing large projects