When to use it
Use smoothing within available float; consider levelling when resource limits require date changes.
When to be cautious
Do not hide a slipped finish or violate a dependency simply to flatten a chart.
Apply it
- Find overloads in the resource-loaded schedule.
- Try movement within float, then evaluate other sequencing or capacity changes.
- Recompute the finish, risk and critical path after the adjustment.
An example in practice
Move non-controlling test preparation within its float to free the specialist for a controlling review.
Source & credit
Common scheduling practice. The critical-path method is associated with James E. Kelley Jr. and Morgan R. Walker; their 1959 paper is the historical reference.
GAO: Schedule Assessment Guide
This explanation and example are independently written. The source is a reading reference; linking it does not grant permission to reuse its text, figures or assessments.