What Is a Network Diagram in Project Management?

Whether you’re a project manager or a project team member, you should familiarize yourself with network diagrams — also known as the project schedule network diagram. A project network diagram is an important tool because it helps teams visualize the activities that need to be completed over the duration of a project. It also gives crucial context like task duration, sequence, and dependency.

What is a project network?

A project network is a graph that shows the activities, duration, and interdependencies of tasks within your project.

What is a project schedule network diagram in project management?

A project schedule network diagram visualizes the sequential and logical relationship between tasks in a project setting. This visualization relies on the clear expression of the chronology of tasks and events.

Most often, a project network diagram is depicted as a chart with a series of boxes and arrows. This network diagram tool is used to map out the schedule and work sequence for the project, as well as track its progress through each stage — up to and including completion. Because it encompasses the large tasks that need to occur over the project’s duration, a network diagram is also useful in illustrating the scope of the project.

Benefits of the project management network diagram

A network diagram allows a project manager to track each element of a project and quickly share its status with others. Its other benefits include:

Visual representation of progress for stakeholders
Establishing project workflows
Tracking dependencies and potential bottlenecks

Research also shows that depicting data in a visual way can improve comprehension and enhance retention — meaning that a network diagram can boost performance and productivity while reducing stress among your team members.