Pert as an Aid to Logic Design

A new application is presented for pert, the well-known statistical project-scheduling method. Using PERT, the logic designer could circumvent usually unrealistic worst-case criteria. He substitutes a formalized statistical method which determines (1) expected or most probable delays, (2) critical timing paths, (3) timing slack allowable between various inputs, and (4) probability of achieving an output by a certain time. From these data the designer can make a meaningful judgment regarding the reliability of his system. Significantly, he may achieve high reliability without being forced to resort to worst-case design.