Question

Describe resource leveling - its objectives and the basic five-step technique to perform it.

Answer 1

Resource levelling can be defined as a method which is used in project management in order to monitor the allocation of various resources and if there is any kind of conflict resulting due to over-allocation then resolving it. When any project is undertaken by the project managers, it is important to have adequate resource planning. This will facilitate the organization to avoid any kind of conflicts and deliver the project on time.

The main objectives of resource levelling are stated as below-

Minimizing the variations in resource allocation by moving the activities or tasks under the slack allowances of each activity

Controlling the overutilization of resources

Facilitating thee smoother resource allocation process

Having minimized set-up time, higher morale

Determining the requirements of various resources for facilitating their availability whenever it is required

Steps of resource levelling:-

Develop a practical estimation of project resource requirements which are defined using different factors.

Determine the gap in the project resource allocation i.e. the difference between the required level of resources and the available level of resources.

Trying to find out the different methods which can be used to fulfil the resource gap. This can include adding more resources or making some changes in the project schedule.

Try to negotiate the best feasible solution. For this, it is important to have a balance between the internal project and organisational dynamics.

Implement the revised resource allocation.