In project management, a discretionary dependency is a link between two project activities that is set by the project team based on their judgement or preference, not on a logical link between the activities. It is also called a soft logic or a preferential dependency.
Discretionary dependencies are often used when there is no logical reason for one activity to come after another, but the project team thinks that the order is best for the project. For example, an activity that involves looking over a document may depend on another activity that involves making the document, even though the two activities have nothing in common. The project team sets up this dependency because it makes sense to look over the document after it’s been made.
Discretionary dependencies can be used to take advantage of chances to improve the project schedule or make the work process run more smoothly. But because they are based on subjective judgement rather than objective criteria, they can also add risks and uncertainty to the project.
Project managers need to think carefully about how they use optional dependencies and make sure they do so wisely and with a good reason. They should also write down and explain to the project team and stakeholders why they are using optional dependencies. This will help everyone understand why the project schedule is the way it is. By doing this, project managers can help reduce the risks that come with optional dependencies and make sure the project goes well.
Usage
It is used in schedule management
