Critical Path in Biopharma Projects: A CMC Manager’s Perspective
In the highly specialized field of biopharmaceutical development, managing the critical path is essential to ensure the successful advancement of products and their timely introduction to market. Delays in this process not only disrupt project schedules but also postpone access to vital therapies for patients. For a CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls) Manager, overseeing the critical path is a key responsibility that directly impacts technical outcomes and regulatory timelines. In this edition of the newsletter, we will explore the concept of the critical path, its importance in biopharma projects, and effective strategies to address potential challenges — all from the perspective of a CMC Manager. What is the Critical Path? At its core, the critical path is the sequence of dependent tasks that determine the shortest time needed to complete a project. If any task on the critical path is delayed, the entire project timeline shifts. The Critical Path Method (CPM) originate...