Finish-to-Start (FS)
Definition:
In project scheduling, setting a dependency rule that the ‘start date’ of a particular task is dependent on the ‘finish date’ of its specified predecessor task.
Project Manager Usage Context
Setting Finish-to-Start dependencies is done within a project scheduling application such as MS Project by either the Project Manager of a Project Scheduler.
Finish-to-Start is the most common type of dependency.
Setting task dependencies is an integral part of working out the planned duration of your project as well as critical to both the sequence order and timing of all project tasks.
Comments / Tips
To avoid any confusion with your project stakeholders, avoid using the term “Finish-to-Start” when communicating this sort of dependency.
Rather, lay it out in layman's terms.
E.g. “We cannot start any work on the project until formal project funding has been approved and funds released to the project”
There are 4 types of task dependencies - also see :
