What is the purpose of a Gantt chart in project management?

The purpose of a Gantt chart in project management is to visually represent the project schedule and tasks over time. This tool is incredibly useful for planning and tracking project timelines, as it lays out the start and end dates of various tasks in a graphical format. Each task is displayed as a bar on a timeline, allowing project managers and team members to see at a glance when tasks are scheduled to start and finish, their duration, and how they overlap with other tasks.

This visual representation facilitates better understanding and communication of the project timeline among stakeholders. It also helps in identifying potential bottlenecks and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently. The simplicity and clarity of a Gantt chart make it an essential tool in project planning, enabling teams to stay organized and on schedule.