Little’s Law
Project Management Professional glossary · Project Management Professional
Definition
WIP = Throughput × Cycle Time. For a given throughput, cycle time is proportional to work in progress.
Little’s Law in plain English
On the PMP, labels are traps if you only memorize them. Little’s Law is a decision tool: it tells you what to notice, what to ignore, and which next move is legal for the situation on the stem. Hold onto this precise job description: WIP = Throughput × Cycle Time. For a given throughput, cycle time is proportional to work in progress. On a stem, name whether Little’s Law is about timing, ownership, measurement, or delivery style — then eliminate the answer that borrows a cousin concept from the wrong phase.
Related Project Management Professional terms
Project Management Professional practice questions · Project Management Professional flashcards · Project Management Professional study guide