Dependencies

Dependencies definition

Dependencies are relationships between tasks, activities, or projects where one element relies on another to begin, proceed, or be completed. Dependencies are essential in project management, helping teams understand how tasks are connected and how changes to one task can impact others.

What are dependencies?

They are logical links between tasks that determine the sequence in which activities need to be performed. Dependencies help define workflow order, reveal potential bottlenecks, and highlight the critical path of a project.

Understanding dependencies is crucial for effective planning, as they dictate the order of execution and help manage risk, avoid delays, and allocate resources efficiently. By mapping out dependencies early in a project, teams can visualize task relationships and identify constraints that may affect timelines or deliverables.

Why dependencies matter in project management

Dependencies are a foundational concept in project planning, especially for complex projects involving multiple teams, tools, and deliverables. When tasks are interlinked, the progress of one directly affects another, making it essential to recognize and plan for these relationships.

Dependencies are also a key input for tools like Gantt charts and project management software, which use them to calculate critical paths, identify slack time, and adjust timelines dynamically. Properly managing dependencies ensures smoother execution and better team coordination.

Dependencies examples

1. Finish-to-Start (FS) This is the most common type of dependency, where Task B cannot begin until Task A is completed.

• Example: A developer cannot start testing a feature until the code has been written.

2. Start-to-Start (SS) Task B can start only when Task A starts.

• Example: Design and content creation for a webpage can begin simultaneously, but must start at the same time to remain aligned.

3. Finish-to-Finish (FF) Task B cannot finish until Task A finishes.

• Example: Writing documentation and conducting final proofreading must be completed around the same time to ensure accuracy.

4. Start-to-Finish (SF) The least common type, where Task B cannot finish until Task A starts.

• Example: The night shift worker (Task B) must stay until the day shift worker arrives (Task A) to ensure continuity.

Project-level dependencies These occur when one project depends on the output or progress of another.

• Example: A mobile app release might depend on the completion of a new API being developed by a separate backend team.

Resource dependencies 

When multiple tasks require the same person or resource, they are resource-dependent.

• Example: If two tasks need the same designer, one may need to wait until the designer is free.

These examples demonstrate that dependencies are not just technical concerns but operational realities that require attention and planning.

Managing dependencies in a project environment

To handle dependencies effectively, teams should:

• Map dependencies early: Identify and document all task relationships during the planning phase.

• Use project management tools: Platforms like Asana, Jira, Wrike, and Microsoft Project allow you to link tasks and set dependency rules.

• Monitor regularly: Reassess dependencies during sprint reviews or milestone check-ins to catch and address issues early.

• Communicate openly: Keep stakeholders informed of any changes to dependent tasks that may affect the broader timeline.

Proactively managing dependencies helps ensure that projects run smoothly, especially when teams are distributed or timelines are tight.

Risks of poor dependency management

Ignoring or poorly handling dependencies can lead to:

• Missed deadlines due to blocked tasks

• Resource overload or misallocation

• Lack of visibility into project progress

• Confusion among stakeholders and team members

In fast-paced or high-stakes environments, these risks can lead to project failure or customer dissatisfaction.

Wrap up

In summary, dependencies refers to the interconnection between tasks, where one activity affects or relies on another. If you’re asking what dependencies are, think of them as the glue that holds the project schedule together. Properly identifying, visualizing, and managing these relationships is key to delivering successful, on-time results in any project environment.