In this article you will learn:
What is an offset?
In projects, tasks are scheduled in relation to each other when linked.
An offset is a fixed time interval between 2 linked tasks. For example, it can be specified during planning that a successor task does not start immediately after the end of the predecessor task, but only after the end of the offset.
This may be necessary for planning reasons (e.g. if waiting time is required).
Where can offsets be inserted?
Offsets can be inserted in the Netplan of a project:
Between flexible tasks or milestones
Between a fixed task/milestone and a flexible task/milestone
Between a task/milestone and the due date
Between tasks that lie after the due date
How do I insert an offset?
This is how an offset can be inserted between 2 linked planning objects (task or milestone):
Click on the link arrow between 2 planning objects
An input field is displayed in the lower area in which the offset is entered:
Enter the desired offset in days
If the non-working days are also to be taken into account for the offset, activate Include non-working days
Close the lower area
The link arrow between the planning objects is shown as a dashed line. This indicates that a link contains an offset.
When you move the mouse over the link arrow, the value of the offset is displayed.
Offsets are also displayed in the Timeline as dashed link arrows.
Consequences of entered offsets
If offsets are inserted when planning a project, this leads to the recalculation of link chains.
If link chains are moved due to date changes, offsets are also moved like flexible tasks.
As part of a link chain, an offset can also contribute to delays, just like a task.
If there is a gap between a task/milestone and the due date, an existing buffer is displayed before the offset.
Note: Buffers and buffer consumption do not affect offsets.
Displaying offsets in the task focus card
The Task dependencies section lists the tasks linked to the current task. If there is an offset between tasks, this is shown in the Offset column.
How do I delete an offset?
After deleting an offset, a recalculation may occur in a link chain.
Click on the link with the offset
The input field for the offset is displayed in the lower area
Delete the existing value
Close the lower area
Note: An offset is automatically deleted when a link with an offset is deleted.