How do resource smoothing and resource leveling differ from each other?
Resource smoothing aims to maintain original project deadlines while increasing project costs. On the other hand, resource leveling does not alter the existing resource capacity but instead emphasizes rescheduling, which may have an impact on project deadlines.
The accompanying diagram, sourced from the APM Body of Knowledge, provides a comparison between the two approaches.
Resource levelling and smoothing options (APM, 2019, p. 179)
© Association for Project Management (APM) (2019) APM Body of Knowledge (7th edn), Princes Risborough: APM.
At a more significant level of impact, certain projects undergo more than just rescheduling or resource allocation adjustments. They may undergo a reevaluation of their project scope by the project sponsor. This involves a broader analysis of the entire project and requires reconsideration of how time, cost, and quality interact within the project.
A prime example is the review of large-scale infrastructure projects like railways. Such projects often undergo rescaling due to increased costs, resulting in significant deviations from the original plans. The consequences of these revisions can affect the client and a wider range of stakeholders and may even result in the loss of subsequent work opportunities (Kerzner, 2009, p. 529).
Now, let’s consider MTD, the water installation events company, and the Glasgow event that you have been following in the course videos thus far. When examining the provided figure, do you think it would be feasible to implement a resource leveling approach in this scenario?
Share your thoughts and join the discussion below.
© The Open University
I will suggest resource smoothing for MTD, since their work has to do with a fixed date of delivery, there is no way they they can reschedule since it is a fixed day of event.
Resource Smoothing would be more feasible and aligned with MTD’s operational needs. Since many of their projects revolve around fixed deadlines (e.g., events or exhibitions), maintaining the schedule is critical.
Rescheduling alone may not work in the case of MTD project. I would suggest Resource smoothing in order to meet up with the project deadline. But also, both leveling and smoothing can be combined where necessary.
For MTD water installation events company, I will suggests considering resource smoothing, due to the fact that MTD has a deadline to deliver the project and also looking at the type of project it is not something that needs rescheduling.
I will consider resource smoothing for MTD as the project have major effect in the community.
By talking to stakeholders.
Increase in resources will be consider as well.
And overtime work should be considered to meet deadlines
According to the course,Resource smoothing focuses on preserving planned deadlines but increasing project costs; resource levelling does not change the current capacity but focuses instead on rescheduling, with a possible impact on project deadlines.
Yes, a resource leveling approach could be applied to MTD’s Glasgow event. Resource leveling
Considering the MTD and Gasglow company, Resource Levelling can’t be used because of the following;
1) The MTD water company already have a deadline that they have to deliver.
2) Rescheduling task to match the available resources.
The best approach to be used in the case of MTD and Gasglow company is Resource Smoothing .
New resources can be added to the project in order to deliver it on time to it’s clients and meetup deadline.
They can decide to work overtime thereby completing the project and deliver to it’s clients.
Resource Smoothing is more relevant and important for MTD and Gasglow company to adopt in order to meet their deadline.
Concerning Glasgow event, i don’t it is possible to make use of resource levelling as they have a tight deadline and limited resources
Considering the Glasgow event organized by MTD, a resource leveling approach might be challenging to apply. Here’s why:
1. *Tight deadlines*: Events like the Glasgow installation have fixed dates and timelines, leaving little room for rescheduling or delaying tasks.
2. *Interdependent tasks*: The event’s success relies on the coordination of various tasks, such as logistics, marketing, and technical setup. Delays in one task can impact others, making resource leveling more complex.
3. *Limited resources*: Events often have limited budgets and resources. Resource leveling might require additional resources or personnel, which might not be feasible.
4. *High stakes*: Events like the Glasgow installation have high visibility and reputational risks. Any mistakes or delays can have significant consequences, making it crucial to prioritize timely completion over resource leveling.
Given these constraints, a more suitable approach for MTD might be:
1. *Critical path method (CPM)*: Focus on identifying and managing the critical tasks that determine the overall event timeline.
2. *Resource allocation*: Assign resources efficiently to ensure that each task has the necessary personnel, equipment, and materials.
3. *Buffer management*: Build in buffers to account for unexpected delays or setbacks, ensuring the event stays on track.
By adopting these strategies, MTD can better manage the complexities of the Glasgow event and ensure its success.