What is a Gantt chart primarily used for in project management?

A Gantt chart is primarily used to visualize the project schedule and track progress. It provides a graphical representation of the timeline for various tasks involved in a project, displaying when each task is supposed to start and finish. This visual format allows project managers and team members to see the relationship between tasks, including which tasks are dependent on others, and helps in assessing the overall progress of the project at a glance.

By laying out tasks along a timeline, Gantt charts facilitate effective planning and monitoring. As tasks are completed, project managers can easily update the chart to reflect the current state of progress, making it a valuable tool for ensuring that the project stays on track and deadlines are met. This clarity in scheduling aids in management decision-making and enhances communication within the project team regarding expected timelines and task deadlines.

The other options, while relevant to overall project management, do not primarily reflect the main function of a Gantt chart. Resource allocation, team communication, and risk identification may utilize other tools and methods better suited for those specific purposes.