Task dependencies
Manage task dependencies in TaskFord’s Gantt view by linking tasks, visualizing relationships, and updating project schedules more effectively.
- Board Admins / Board Editors can manage task dependencies in the Gantt view.
- Site Admins / Site Editors can manage task dependencies in the Gantt view only on Open boards.
Task dependencies define the relationships between tasks, establishing the logical order of your project. By linking tasks, you ensure that everyone understands which tasks must be finished before the next ones can begin.
In the Gantt view, dependencies appear as connecting arrows between task bars. These visual links help you map project sequences, identify critical paths, and automatically update schedules based on changes.
Types of task dependencies
TaskFord supports four main types of dependencies:
- Finish-to-Start (FS): This is the most common dependency type. Task A must be completed before Task B can begin.
Example: “Finalize UI design” must be finished before “Develop the user interface” can start.
- Start-to-Start (SS): The second task can only start once the first task has started. Both tasks can run at the same time.
Example: “Start backend development” and “Start frontend development” can begin once the project development phase starts.
- Finish-to-Finish (FF): The first task must be completed before the second task can be finished.
Example: “Complete user testing” must finish before “Finalize the test report” can be completed.
- Start-to-Finish (SF): This is the least common dependency. Task A cannot be finished until Task B has started.
Example: “Maintain legacy system support” cannot end until “Launch the new system” has started.
Create a task dependency
To create a dependency between tasks:
- Hover over the taskbar you want to link.
- A connector dot will appear on the left or right side of the taskbar.
- Drag the dot to the start or end of another task bar.
- Release the mouse to create the dependency.
View dependency details
You can view information about a dependency directly from the Gantt view:
- Select the dependency arrow connecting two tasks.
- The Dependency Link dialog will open, displaying the dependency details.
The dialog shows:
- Linked tasks: Shows the predecessor and successor tasks involved in the dependency.
- Dates: Displays the scheduled start or finish dates of the linked tasks.
- Dependency type: Shows the relationship type between the tasks (e.g., Finish-to-Start, Start-to-Start).
- Unlink option: Click the unlink icon to remove the dependency between the two tasks.
Remove a dependency
To remove a dependency in TaskFord:
- Click the dependency arrow connecting the tasks on the timeline.
- In the Dependency Link dialog, choose Unlink.
