Introduction
In project planning, task dependencies define the logical order of work. In Easy Gantt, these are called task relations or links. Understanding how they work allows users to manage the flow of tasks, prevent delays, and maintain accurate project timelines.
Target Audience
- Project managers setting task dependencies
- Users managing project schedules in Gantt
- Administrators configuring project workflows
Understanding Task Relations in Easy Gantt
Definition
Task relations are links between two tasks that define how they are dependent on each other in time. Easy Gantt supports four standard types of task relations, which can be set using the drag and drop feature between tasks.
Types of Task Relations
| Type | Code | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finish-to-Start | FS | Task B cannot start until Task A finishes | “Pour concrete” starts after “Dig foundation” ends |
| Start-to-Start | SS | Task B cannot start until Task A starts | “Level concrete” starts once “Pour concrete” starts |
| Finish-to-Finish | FF | Task B cannot finish until Task A finishes | “Inspect electrical” finishes after “Add wiring” finishes |
| Start-to-Finish | SF | Task B cannot finish until Task A starts | “Assemble roof” finishes only after “Truss delivery” starts |
Visualization and Behavior
In Gantt View
- Green lines show predecessor/follower relations
- Blue lines indicate related/blocked-by relations
- Relations are created and adjusted by dragging from one task bar to another
Functional Notes
- Cross-project relations cannot be visualized in the Gantt chart
- Only green and blue relation types are supported visually
- Start-to-Start (SS) relations must be created directly in Easy Gantt
- Relations between a parent task and its subtask are not allowed
- Maximum of two relations between any two tasks (e.g., SS and FF)
- Loops (cyclic dependencies) are not allowed
- Reversed (negative) relations cannot be created
- Moving tasks in Gantt updates SS and FF relations, but only if the move happens in Gantt
- Baselines:
- Changes in unlocked (flexible) relations are excluded from baseline if not saved
- Changes in locked (fixed) relations are included even if unsaved
Examples
- Creating an FS link ensures "Task B" does not begin before "Task A" is completed
- A blue line between tasks may indicate one task blocks another
- Moving a task with SS or FF relation in Gantt automatically adjusts related task dates
Conclusion
Task relations in Easy Gantt define how tasks connect and impact each other. Knowing how to use and visualize FS, SS, FF, and SF types gives better control over scheduling. Following system rules prevents invalid links and helps maintain project integrity.
