How does CPA primarily differ from PERT?

CPA, or Critical Path Analysis, is fundamentally centered around identifying the critical path of tasks within a project. The critical path is the longest path through a project, determining the shortest time in which the project can be completed. By identifying this path, project managers can focus their attention on the tasks that directly impact the project timeline. This aspect is crucial because it helps in prioritizing resources and managing dependencies effectively, ensuring that critical tasks are monitored to prevent delays.

While the other choices touch on different aspects of project management techniques, they do not encapsulate the primary difference between CPA and PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique). For example, focusing on task durations and time estimation methods are elements of both techniques rather than distinguishing features. Similarly, considering complexity does not directly address the core objectives of CPA relative to PERT. The essential takeaway is that CPA's identification of the critical path is what sets it apart and underpins its practical application in project management.