Resource optimization and schedule compression techniques
In project management, resource optimization techniques are tools used to make adjustments to the implementation of project activities, completion dates, and allocation of resources. They include resource smoothing and leveling techniques. Whereas schedule compression techniques allow scheduling time so that the project activities can be done within a schedule (Monnappa, 2020). They are useful when the manager wants to reduce the project duration. This paper describes resource optimization and scheduling compression techniques used in project management.
Resource smoothing is a resource optimization technique that adjusts schedules of activities to ensure that all project requirements don’t stretch beyond the limits indicated in the project plans (Vignesh, 2018). The significant benefit that managers derive from this technique is that it helps them work within the allocated time while avoiding resource demands. It also guarantees a more efficient and cost-effective use of resources. The technique works best where time constraints take apriority, and the work is needed to be completed within a required date, like in construction projects. Vignesh (2018) concludes that a smoothed resource profile requirements exceed certain predefined limits while the critical path never changes. Managers can achieve a smoothed resource profile when some of their project works are delayed, and this helps them eliminate flexibility in the plan and its ability to handle delays.
According to Burke (2013), resource leveling is a resource optimization technique where the start and completion dates are adjusted based on the constraint to balance the demand for resources with what is available. The goal of leveling is to reduce the resource requirements fluctuation, which is always a challenge to the managers and the management. This technique overlooks the allocation of resources and resolves any issues that emanate from over or under the allocation of resources for new projects leading to minimization of the project duration (Vignesh, 2018). It is essential when there is a need to navigate potential future, mitigate risk, and ensure that the bottom line is being met efficiently. It is ideal for those who experience backlog at the workplace like internet service providers. This is because it helps them schedule customers’ complaints and maintenance of their devices. With this, both the managers and the staff know what is coming next and who to handle it.
Monnappa (2020) defines schedule crashing as a compression technique that managers use to reduce project duration without making changes to the scope. It allows managers to analyze and categorize activities based on the minimal crash cost. And the result is that more resources will be added to the critical paths without achieving the highest efficiency level. The significant importance of crashing is that it shortens the project while keeping a minimum cost. For instance, in a construction project where a person works on a ten-day activity on the critical path, a manager can shorten the time frame by adding a second resource to speed up the work. The resources may reduce overlapping time by some days and minimize incremental costs.
The fast-tracking technique compresses the schedule by reorganizing the Project Schedule Network diagram and changing its connection with the critical path (Monnappa, 2020). The activities that would have been performed sequentially can now be performed parallel after fast-tracking. It doesn’t increase cost but increases the project risk because the activities are now done concurrently. For instance, if the project schedule won’t fit the timeframe allocated for a given project. A manager can fast track one of the activities, such as training, by ensuring that the training begins early to allow the schedule to be shortened without incurring additional costs.
References
Vignesh, V. (2018). Resource Optimization of Construction Project Using Primavera P6. IOSR Journal of Mechanical and Civil Engineering (IOSR-JMCE) e-ISSN, 2278-1684.
Burke, R. (2013). Project management: planning and control techniques. New Jersey, USA, 26.
Monnappa, A. (2020). Project Management Learning Series: Fast-Tracking Versus Crashing. https://www.simplilearn.com/fast-tracking-vs-crashing-article