Asana’s new advanced dependency types—Start-to-Start (SS), Finish-to-Finish (FF), Finish-to-Start (FS), and Start-to-Finish (SF)—improve task management by offering greater flexibility and precision in project scheduling. These features also eliminate unnecessary conflicts in dependencies, allowing Asana to better understand and align with the project team’s intentions.
Understand Each Dependency Type
- Start-to-Start (SS): Both tasks begin simultaneously. Useful for tasks that need to start together but can progress independently.
- Finish-to-Finish (FF): Both tasks finish at the same time. Ideal for tasks that need to be completed concurrently.
- Finish-to-Start (FS): One task begins only after another task finishes. Perfect for sequential tasks where the start of one task (Task B) depends on the completion of the previous task (Task A).
- Start-to-Finish (SF): One task finishes only after another task starts. Useful when the completion of one task (Task B) relies on the initiation of another task (Task A).
Leverage Their Power
Use Gantt and Timeline views to clearly visualize these dependencies. The new dependency lines show the relationships and timing between tasks at a glance.
Note: At this time, SS and FF dependency types visually showing as a conflict, appearing red, but are not.
Where to Find These Settings
Change dependency types via the task details pane. The default option is FS.
Practical Example: Newsletter Development
Our team uses these dependency types to enhance our workflow for developing our newsletter:
- Start-to-Start (SS): We use SS in the initial phase for content development. For example, blog writing and social media promotion development may begin at the same time.
- Start-to-Finish (SF): The blog must be drafted before it is handed off to design for infographic development. SF ensures that the design team has the necessary information to create graphics that align with the post.
- Finish-to-Start (FS): Social media promotions for the newsletter cannot start until the newsletter itself is delivered.
Other Practical Applications for Various Teams
Many projects will utilize a combination of these dependency types:
- IT Teams: Use SS for system upgrades and subsequent testing to reduce downtime and address issues efficiently.
- Operations Teams: Use FF for inventory audits and ordering new stock, ensuring orders are placed after the audit while deciding what to order during the audit.
- Sales Teams: Use FS for training and product launches, ensuring training is complete before launching a new product.
By incorporating these advanced dependency types, teams across different departments can enhance coordination, reduce bottlenecks, and achieve project goals more efficiently. Explore these features in your projects and experience a new level of project management efficiency with Asana!
