Start-to-Start (SS)

A dependency where the successor activity cannot begin until the predecessor activity has begun.

Key Points

  • The successor may not start until the predecessor has at least started.
  • Once the predecessor starts, both activities can proceed in parallel.
  • You can add lead or lag to shift the successor's start relative to the predecessor's start.
  • Controls start times only; it does not determine when either activity finishes.

Example

In a software project, begin integration testing 2 days after development starts. This is an SS relationship with a 2-day lag.

PMP Example Question

Activity B can start only after Activity A has started, and both may run concurrently. What dependency is this?

  1. Finish-to-Start (FS)
  2. Start-to-Start (SS)
  3. Finish-to-Finish (FF)
  4. Start-to-Finish (SF)

Correct Answer: B — Start-to-start relationship (SS)

Explanation: SS ties the start of the successor to the start of the predecessor; the successor cannot begin until the predecessor has begun.

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