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
As a project manager for MTD, I will advise that we stick with Resource smoothing because it aligns with the objective of the company ( to deliver water timely and when needed)
I don’t think it would be a good idea to compromise the deadline. instead of resource levelling, I would go resource smoothing, since it sticks to the deadline which in this case is cardinal.
The MTD Project aimed to provide quality water at a specific time or period and hence, I do not think it would be feasible to implement a resource leveling approach in this scenario. This is because the levelling approach focused on rescheduling with an impact on the project deadline. This impact on the deadline might not warrant the MTD deliver their product as at when due.
With MTD, It is very possible to apply resource levelling approach on preserving planned deadlines.
For the MTD water project I believe resource smoothing will be the best approach to maintain quality and still keep to time.
As a Pm I sure will consider using a resource smoothing strategy.
Considering the importance of meeting deadlines for event planning, resource smoothing may not be the ideal option as it could lead to increased project costs. Since MTD is likely working on a budget, managing resource overload through leveling would be a more cost-effective approach.
As the PM, I will consider resource smoothing because the project will still be in line with the deadline and still retain quality. Though there will be cost increase will will be discussed with project sponsors and stakeholders before reaching an agreement.
Thank you
Joanna
For the MTD project , resource smoothing will be advisable,
Resource smoothing refers to a technique where resources are adjusted
to meet project demands without changing the project schedule.
In resource smoothing, resources are allocated in such a way that
their utilization is balanced and peaks and valleys in resource demand are minimized.
The goal is to distribute the workload evenly over time, keeping resource utilization
as steady as possible. This technique is particularly useful when limited resources
are available and project schedule flexibility is less important, with this approach project delivery will still be in specified frame window
Resource smoothing would be the best approach. It will minimize resource fluctuations and maintain a balanced workload throughout the project, ensuring efficient resource allocation and successful event execution within the available timeline and resources. By carefully managing resource utilization, MTD can avoid overloading team members and reduce the risk of resource shortages.