Description
The Time Impact Analysis (TIA) method is a modeled technique, characterized by simulating delay effects on a schedule updated to a date preceding the delay event. This simulation is then reevaluated to determine the resulting impact on the critical path, accomplished through specialized software.
It is a prospectively applicable methodology, which means that a delay analysis can be carried out while the project is in progress, although the most common is to carry out the analysis once the project has concluded or one of the most important milestones has been reached.
For the application of this method, it is necessary to have contemporary programs to introduce the events that have taken place throughout the study period. Typically, monthly intervals are chosen, aligning with the prevailing practice in contracts for update submissions. However, in cases where more frequent updates are available, employing shorter intervals can yield more accurate outcomes.
By using contemporaneous updates as in the Time Slice Windows analysis method, delays on the actual critical path of the project at that point in time can be analyzed, as long as the schedule is done realistically and not for commercial purposes. This method can be considered as the application of the same system used in Impacted as Planned but on monthly updates.
To effectively conduct a delay analysis using the TIA methodology, the following steps must be followed:
- Program Identification: Begin by identifying the programs that will serve as benchmarks for measuring progress and identifying delay events.
- Retrieve Updated Schedule: Acquire the most recent updated schedule available, reflecting the project’s status up to the day just before the occurrence of the delay event.
- Integrate Delay Impact: Introduce the delay event into the schedule, accurately associating it with the affected activities. Subsequently, recalculate the schedule and check if there is any change in the final date of the project.
- Critical Path and Date Assessment: Analyze any modifications in the critical path and the projected end date of the project stemming from the introduced delay.
- Accountability Identification: Identify the parties responsible for the delays or advancements that are simulated within the study period.
- Progressive Analysis: Extend this analytical process throughout the entire project timeline, accumulating the outcomes from preceding periods to ascertain the cumulative impact on the overall project.
Strengths of the Time Impact Analysis
- It allows prospective analysis to be carried out, which is why it is very useful to claim time extensions while the project is running.
Weaknesses of the Time Impact Analysis
- Selective Event Analysis: This method delves into specific events, making it susceptible to bias that could favor either party. The quantity of modeled events significantly influences the intricacy and expenses associated with method execution.
- Dependency on Cohesive Programs: The methodology is based on the use of totally related and consistent programs.
- Software Proficiency and Time: Effective implementation necessitates profound familiarity with planning software and substantial time investment to ensure a robust analysis.
- Unsuitable for Expert Reports: This method may not be ideally suited for generating expert reports concerning delay analysis due to its selective event-focused nature.