"Fast tracking" is a term used to describe the acceleration of a project or process. Phonetically, it is spelled /fæst ˈtrækɪŋ/. The first syllable, "fast," is pronounced with a short "a" sound, followed by a consonant cluster of "st." The second syllable, "tracking," begins with a voiced "tr" sound, followed by a short "a" sound and the consonant sound "k." This word is commonly used in business and project management, as companies aim to expedite tasks and increase efficiency.
Fast tracking is a project management strategy that aims to accelerate the completion of a project by strategically rearranging its schedule or phases to compress timelines. It involves a deliberate effort to expedite the progress of certain activities or phases to meet tight deadlines or catch up on project delays. This approach aims to maximize efficiency and minimize the project's overall duration by overlapping or running certain activities in parallel that would typically be executed sequentially.
By fast tracking, project managers can identify critical activities that can be performed concurrently without compromising quality or safety. It involves careful evaluation of the project plan and identifying dependencies to determine which tasks can be accelerated and completed simultaneously. This may include reducing or eliminating unnecessary checkpoints or reviews, procuring materials in advance, or allocating additional resources to vital activities.
However, fast tracking carries inherent risks as it places significant pressure on project teams. These risks include reduced time for thorough planning, increased chances of rework, errors, and potential impact on quality. Thus, a balance must be struck between expediting progress and ensuring project success.
Overall, fast tracking is a dynamic project management approach that involves adjusting schedules, resequencing tasks, and concurrently executing activities to expedite project completion without compromising work efficiency or compromising quality.
The word "fast tracking" is a compound term formed by combining the words "fast" and "tracking".
"Fast" in this context means quick or speedy, suggesting that something is happening rapidly or with great efficiency. It traces back to the Old English word "fæst", which meant firmly fixed or steadfast. Through time, "fæst" evolved to "fast", acquiring its current meaning of speed or quickness.
"Tracking" refers to the act of following or monitoring the progress or development of something, often with the intention of keeping it on schedule or within specific parameters. The term comes from the verb "track", which originated from the Middle Low German word "trekken" or the Middle Dutch word "trecken", both meaning to draw or pull.
When combined, "fast tracking" carries the idea of expediting or accelerating the process of tracking or achieving a goal or objective.