8. Schedule And Resource Optimisation Flashcards
Describe ways to create and maintain a schedule
Critical path and Gant charts
3 points then CP and GC then two points
Identify projects tasks: both big and small
Estimate task durations: can use historical data, expert opinions, or other sources of information
Sequence tasks: creating logical sequences
Determine critical path: longest sequence of tasks that must be completed on time, too sure the project completion on schedule
Gantt chart: visual tool that displays a Projects timeline including start and end date for each task.
Can also display the critical path and resource allocation.
Useful tool for project managers to communicate the project progress and timeline to stakeholders.
Monitor progress.
Use project management software.
Differentiate between the critical path and critical chain as scheduling techniques
4 points
Critical path scheduling places emphasis on the activity where is critical chain scheduling places emphasis on the resources.
Critical path scheduling keeps afloat with an activity where is critical chain scheduling strips the float from the activity and keeps of it as a buffer for a chain of activities.
Critical path is focused on the time element of the works package. It’s work package will have a defined start time, end time and duration.
The critical chain model reduces the amount of time given to the task relative to critical path but creates a buffer or slot with the schedule to scope up any occasions where is needed. This theory reduces any potential for team members to potentially intentionally delay starting a package of work.
Describe how resources are categorised an allocated to a linear life cycle schedule
Hint: I-C – A– M –A
In a linear life-cycle, resources are categorised an allocated based on a project phases
1.Identify the resources needed for each phase(personnel, equipment, materials)
2.Categorise resources
3.Allocate the resources
4.Monitor resource usage
5.Adjust resource allocation
Describe how resources are categorised and allocated to an iterative life-cycle schedule
Resources are allocated based on the specific needs of each iteration.
Project manager is responsible for allocating resources to each iteration based on the priorities and objectives of the iteration.
The allocation of resources into each iteration is reviewed and adjusted based on the progress of the project and the feedback received from stakeholders.
This allows for a flexible allocation of resources that can be adjusted to meet the change the needs of the project.
Differentiate between resource smoothing a resource levelling
- two techniques used in project management to adjust resource allocation and balance resource demand with resource capacity.
Resource smoothing refers to a technique used to adjust the resource allocation to minimise fluctuations in resource usage over time, while still meet project constraints.
-Resource smoothing is used to avoid sudden peaks or valleys in resource usage by adjusting the start and finish times of the project, whilst maintaining the project schedule.
-The technique is useful when resources are limited on the project schedule are inflexible.
On the other hand resource levelling is a technique used to adjust a project schedule to balance resource demands with resource capacity. The objective of the of resource levelling is the allocate resources to activities in a way that meets project requirements and constraints, whilst also maximising resource utilisation and minimising project duration . This technique is used for when resources are abundant and the project schedule is flexible.
Differentiate between cost planning for iterative life cycles and course planning for linear life cycles
Cost estimation
Cost estimation
Iterative lifecycles cost estimation is more difficult because of a Projects got me involved as a project progresses. Therefore the cost estimate needs to be updated regularly to reflect changes in the scope.
Linear lifecycles.
More straightforward as a project scope typically defined upfront, making it easier for estimates of costs of completing the project.
Differentiate between cost planning for iterative life cycles and course planning for linear life cycles
Resource allocation
Iterative lifecycles
Resource allocation can be challenging because it’s not always clear which tasks require the most resources
Important allocate resources flexibly so they can be adjusted as a project involves.
Linda cycles
More rigid of resources are allocated based on a project define schedule.
Differentiate between cost planning for iterative life cycles and course planning for linear life cycles
Budget control
Iterative life cycles
Budget control can be more challenging as a project scope and requirements me evolve over time.
Is important to monitor the project. Progress regulate and adjust the budget as necessary.
Linear lifecycles.
More straightforward project. Scope of requirements are typically defined upfront.
