What is a key benefit of fast tracking in project schedules?

Fast tracking in project schedules is primarily beneficial because it allows for quicker project completion compared to traditional project delivery methods. This technique involves overlapping design and construction phases, which can significantly reduce the overall time required to complete a project. By engaging construction activities before the entire design process is finalized, teams can expedite various elements of the project and potentially bring a product to market faster. This advantage is particularly appealing in industries where time-to-market is critical or where project timelines are constrained due to client demands or other logistical challenges.

While some may mistakenly believe that fast tracking guarantees higher quality work, it actually increases the risk of errors and omissions as the project progresses without the complete information that traditional methods might provide. Fast tracking also does not eliminate the need for thorough planning; in fact, it often requires more meticulous planning to manage the complexities that arise from overlapping activities. Finally, while construction documentation is essential, fast tracking does not inherently simplify it; rather, it can complicate documentation processes since multiple parts of the project may need to be addressed simultaneously.