Gantt charts are visual tools used in project management to represent the timeline of a project. They display tasks along a horizontal timeline, allowing teams to see the start and end dates of each task, as well as their dependencies. This helps in planning and coordinating various activities effectively. By providing a clear overview of the project schedule, Gantt charts facilitate better communication among team members and stakeholders. They are particularly useful for tracking progress and ensuring that deadlines are met, making them a staple in project planning and resource allocation.