A buffer is a schedule element that connects a series of tasks with a milestone or task which should not be slipped.

Unlike a regular task, however, the buffer collapses when it is pushed by upstream delays. In this way it absorbs the slips to protect the downstream event.

The key property of a buffer is its "Availability", the number of days that it can absorb.
In Project Gateway, a buffer assignment displays its remaining availability with a colorful meter and tracks history with an adjoining table.


A Buffer Assignment. The Notes and Web appearances are very similar.
Note that this one is still 100% available.


Buffers can be included in Schedule Templates. They appear as red Gantt bars in the Time Display Mode.


You create the buffer in the template by setting the "Type" property on the edit form.


Any Repository assignment can be turned into a buffer by using the task options settings.


Project Buffers get special treatment. Their availability is displayed it the Project Profile.



The rescheduling logic analyzes the schedule dates and dependencies
and implements the special behavior of the buffers.
The remaining Buffer availability is shown on the proposal Gantt chart.
In this case, the proposed changes will overrun the buffer.
Note that you get to see this before committing the change to the workplan. Perhaps some changes are possible.

For more information...
Read about Using Reschedule and Gantt WhatIF in the Users Guide
Read about Using Assignments in the Users Guide