A project management technique that identifies the longest sequence of dependent tasks that determines the minimum project duration. Any delay in critical path activities delays the entire project.
Developed by DuPont and Remington Rand in the late 1950s, from Greek 'kritikos' (able to judge) and Old English 'pæth' (way). Created to optimize chemical plant construction schedules.
The critical path is like the slowest person in a group hike - everyone has to wait for them, so they determine how fast the whole group moves. Smart project managers focus 80% of their attention on critical path tasks because that's where delays hurt the most!
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