Link Tasks

Dependencies describe the technical or organizational sequence between tasks and explain many date shifts.

Workflow

  1. Select predecessor and successor tasks.

  2. Create the suitable dependency type, usually finish-to-start.

  3. Use lead or lag only with a real planning reason.

  4. Check dependency properties for type, delay, and direction.

  5. Review the Gantt chart and critical path after changes.

Open dependency properties

Double-click a dependency line to review the link properties. Check the predecessor, successor, dependency type, interval type, delay, and highlighting before changing the schedule manually.

Dependency properties for linked tasks

Available dependency types

Rillsoft Project supports the common dependency types used in the Gantt, network, and Gantt-network views:

  • Finish-Start: the predecessor must finish before the successor can start.

  • Start-Start: the predecessor must start before the successor can start.

  • Finish-Finish: the predecessor must finish before the successor can finish.

  • Start-Finish: the predecessor must start before the successor can finish.

  • Incompatible activity group: the linked tasks must not run at the same time.

Create a dependency

Use Start > Insert > Link and choose the dependency type, then draw the connection between the predecessor and successor tasks.

Link command in the Start menu

The dependency can also be created in the Gantt chart. After drawing the link, confirm or adjust the interval type and delay in the properties dialog.

Create a link between tasks in the Gantt chart Confirm link properties after creating a dependency

Intervals and delay

Dependency intervals can be absolute, calendar-based, or relative. A positive delay moves the successor later; a negative delay creates an overlap. Use negative delays only when the overlap is intentional and can be explained in a review.

Context commands

The Gantt chart context menu also provides commands for moving predecessor or successor chains. Use them only when the whole chain should be adjusted around the selected task.

Context menu for dependency chain adjustments

Check the result

  • No dependency points in the wrong direction.

  • Lead and lag are explainable.

  • Fixed dates do not hide missing dependencies.

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