What does a Gantt chart illustrate in project management?

A Gantt chart is a widely used project management tool that visually represents the timeline of a project. It illustrates the start and finish dates of various project elements or tasks, making it clear when each task is scheduled to begin and end. This graphical representation allows project managers and team members to see the progress of tasks at a glance, identify overlapping tasks, and understand the overall timeline of the project.

By providing a clear overview of the scheduling of different tasks, a Gantt chart helps in planning and coordinating activities effectively. It can also assist in resource allocation by showing when specific resources are needed. This visual layout ultimately supports better communication among team members and stakeholders about the project's timeline and key milestones.