Tidsoverslag

Tidsoverslag is a term used in project management to describe the difference between the time planned for a task or project and the time that was actually needed. In Norwegian and Danish usage, it can refer to the schedule overrun, but it is also sometimes used to denote a rough time estimate for planning purposes. The concept is closely related to schedule performance and is often expressed as an absolute duration or as a percentage.

Calculation can be done in two common ways. Absolute overrun = actual duration minus planned duration. Relative overrun = (actual duration minus planned duration) divided by planned duration, multiplied by 100 percent. A negative value indicates the task finished earlier than planned. Tidsoverslag is usually tracked against baselines and milestones to monitor project health.

Causes of tidsoverslag include underestimating task complexity, scope changes, late or poor decisions, delays in dependencies, resource shortages, permitting or regulatory delays, and unforeseen technical problems. External factors such as weather can also play a role. Large tidsoverslag can lead to higher costs, delayed delivery, and increased risk of penalties or stakeholder dissatisfaction.

Mitigation strategies emphasize better estimation and planning, including structured estimation methods (such as three-point or probabilistic estimates), risk analysis, and contingency reserves. Rolling-wave planning, buffer time, and more frequent schedule updates help manage expectations. Clear change control, improved resource allocation, and consideration of critical path can reduce the likelihood and impact of tidsoverslag.

In practice, tidsoverslag is used both as a retrospective performance metric and as part of future planning to build more realistic schedules and buffers.