One principle of resource leveling is to avoid overworking…
One principle of resource leveling is to avoid overworking a resource during a specific period. This is often judged by the constraints placed on the resource by the project calendar. How can a project manager know for certain how much work that a given project resource can complete in any given unit of time? What factors, if any, should the project manager consider beyond the constraints of the project calendar? Assume that you are a project manager that is assigning resources to your project schedule. Assume further that you are waiting for another project to complete so that you can shift resources from the project that is ending to the project that is starting—and that the project is delayed. How should you proceed to assign resources? What are some possible options?
Resource leveling is an important concept in project management that aims to distribute work evenly among resources to avoid overworking them during a specific period. One key factor in resource leveling is the constraints imposed on resources by the project calendar. However, project managers need to consider various other factors while determining the amount of work a resource can complete in a given unit of time.
To determine the capacity of a project resource, project managers can rely on historical data from similar projects. By analyzing the performance and output of resources in the past, project managers can estimate the capacity of a resource in terms of work completed in a given timeframe. This historical data can provide insights into the efficiency, productivity, and limitations of individual resources.
In addition to historical data, project managers should consider the skills, experience, and expertise of each resource. Different resources may have different levels of proficiency or specialization, which can impact their productivity levels. For example, a senior engineer might be able to complete a task faster and more accurately than a junior engineer. By evaluating the skills and capabilities of resources, project managers can ensure that task assignments are optimized and resources are not overburdened.
Furthermore, the availability and workload of resources should be considered. If a project manager is waiting for another project to be completed before shifting resources, and that project is delayed, the project manager needs to reassess the allocation of resources. In such a situation, the project manager can explore several options:
1. Reallocate resources from the ending project: If the delay in the starting project is minor and the ending project is close to completion, the project manager can temporarily reallocate resources from the ending project to the starting project. By carefully managing the workload and considering the impact on both projects, the project manager can ensure that resources are effectively utilized.
2. Hire temporary resources: If the delay in the starting project is substantial or the resources from the ending project are not feasible to reallocate, the project manager can consider hiring temporary resources to bridge the gap. This allows for a smooth transition between projects without compromising the timely delivery of the starting project.
3. Adjust project timelines: If neither reallocating resources nor hiring temporary resources is feasible, the project manager may need to adjust the timelines of the starting project. By extending the project duration or resequencing tasks, the project manager can accommodate the delay without overloading resources.
In summary, project managers can determine the capacity of project resources by analyzing historical data, considering the skills and expertise of resources, and evaluating their availability and workload. In scenarios where a project is delayed and resources need to be assigned, project managers have options such as reallocating resources, hiring temporary resources, or adjusting project timelines to ensure optimal resource utilization.