Timeline variables - how can I create a chart for this?

[Beartracks]

I need to develop some kind of visual aid for a timeline-type process so that a client can see all the possible durations and end-dates, but the process has so many variables I'm not sure how to begin.

Several of the components in this timeline are of uncertain duration, but do have maximums -- e.g. "Phase A can be no more than six months" and "Phase B can extend up until 12 months since the Event that precipitated Phase A" and stuff like that.

Most every phase and decision point happens in a defined sequence, but not all phases and decision points will even occur depending on the decision points that happen earlier.

So anyhow, what's a good solution for this kind of thing? I'm not wanting to create a project in Microsoft Project, because then I'd have to a) send an entire Project file to the client, and b) learn how to use Project, which may take longer than my boss has given me to produce this graphic. Probably more trouble than it's worth.

Is there any kind of non-dynamic way to do this? Or would I just have to produce numerous iterations of, say, a bar-type timeline graphic to show all the possible ways things could go?

Or perhaps a flowchart? Except the client really needs to see HOW LONG everything could take, not how all the possibilities flow.

Any ideas how to represent such a thing?



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