A Gantt chart template is a tool that is a visual representation of a timeline and completion of different tasks need to be done to finish a project. It is important to keep track of the progress made while working on a project with a deadline. It is also important that you break the project into smaller tasks and then set a deadline for each small task. Breaking down a larger task into smaller sub-tasks ensures that considerable attention and effort is put into each step. In addition, completion of each small task evokes a sense of achievement and keeps one focused and motivated throughout the project. A Gantt chart is used to elaborate a step-by-step plan which concisely defined every step of a long-term project that needs to be executed strategically. It also mentions the starting dates of the project as a whole as well as each small task that the main project is divided into. Having the deadlines and the time limits laid out in a form that is easy to perceive and makes it easier to keep track of the time one has on their hands for the completion of the project.
Layout of a Gantt Chart:
A Gantt chart is made in the form of a bar chart that has categories and a brief description of the action on one axis and the time limit on the other axis. Each bar shows the progress of each individual task, and we can assign different colors for each task or the ones that are finished can be colored differently. There can be a huge range of variations and ideas that can be incorporated into the formation of a Gantt chart. The sky is the limit! To make it look appealing and interesting to work on, the bars and the fonts can be assigned different designs, shapes, colors and layouts. No matter how small or big the project is, the Gantt chart has no limitations to it. Moreover, it is highly recommended that you make a Gantt chart for your project, even if the project is small and needs to be finished in a day or two. Keeping a scheduled track of progress has actually proved to assist even those who procrastinate to finish their tasks right on time.
Key Components of a Gantt chart:
A common Gantt chart incorporates a few components that are common in all of them. With slight variations and modifications, you can customize your very own Gantt chart as per your needs. The crucial elements of this chart consist of the following information; the names and a few-word description of each element that a long-term project is divided into, project initiating dates and the dates on which this project will complete. Their current progress, the names of the people assigned for the execution of each step and the time period in days or weeks that is required to finish each task are also clearly mentioned in the chart. For certain projects, if one or more tasks have over-lapping duties or people to work on, the chart may also describe that and make it easier for project managers to track the progress and assign the tasks during specific timelines for people to coordinate. The Gantt charts can be made of Excel sheets, Google sheets or there is separate software designed for that specific purpose.
