LEADERSHIP

108 • LEADERSHIP
each path on an even, horizontal axis. You’ll probably find
yourself moving notes around as workflow relationships become
clear—and that’s one of the great things about this approach.
Planning is a learning process.
When you’re satisfied with the workflow, draw arrows between
the nodes to indicate all workflow pathways. Add one
last node, the Finish node, on the far right of the diagram to
indicate our completion milestone. Extend each workflow
pathway from its previous last task with a final arrow terminating
on the Finish node. There should be no dangling pathways
when you’re done.
Step 3: If you haven’t already done so, place each task’s duration
estimate on the sticky note. Now you’re ready to identify
the critical path. You’ll recall that the critical path is the
longest workflow path; it determines the shortest possible
time in which the project (given adequate resources, of
course) can be completed. When your duration estimates are
complete, create a small table off to the side of your network
diagram or on scratch paper. Title the first column "Full