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
Mfon Brendan
Cohort 13
Team 9
Implementing resource levelling will not be feasible as these water installing event work with timelines. The customer may not be willing to sacrifice time but may be better willing to use more resources to get the work done without shifting the schedule of the project.
However since timeline is important in these MTD water events, resource smothing may be more suitable, as this will focus on resolving any issue they have with resources without necessarily shifting the project dates. Resource smoothing allows for more flexibility in adjusting activities within their float roo ensure that resources are allocated efficiently without extending the project time
It will not be feasible to implement resource leveling in this kind of project because certain factors needs to be consider like understanding the economic aspects involved in the negotiation and of the mutual value sought through the collaboration.
Secondly the environmental factor and the climate condition needs to be considered.
And lastly the more time wasted, is the more costly the project would become, time management is a skill all project manager must consider in any given projects which makes the project to be defined.
I would not advise using the resource levelling approach as d major issue of the project is a scarcity of resources.
In light of MTD’s critical role in supplying portable drinking water for sports events, my main focus will be on optimizing resource management. As we approach fixed deadlines before the main event, efficient resource allocation is essential to meet these time-sensitive requirements. Prioritizing resource optimization is key to ensuring resources are utilized effectively without any wastage or excess burden. Given the project’s intricate nature, adopting a strategic approach to resource management through optimization facilitates appropriate resource allocation. This systematic approach plays a pivotal role in exceeding customer expectations and providing top-notch services to MTD’s clientele.
Haven observed the MTD project as a deadline project, I would say in the event of resource overload, I will advice a s
Resource soothing. Although, cost may change. But not resource levelling due to time.
The core values of MTD, including passion for what they do, employee drive, support for everyone, and quality infrastructure, positively influence the ethical aspects of their operations. However, a misalignment or breach of these core values and ethical principles may lead to the following consequences:
1. Violation of Rules and Regulations: A deviation from MTD’s core values and ethical principles may result in the violation of rules and regulations, impacting the project’s compliance and potentially leading to environmental disasters.
2. Impact on Moral Principles and Quality Infrastructure: Adhering to moral principles and ethical practices, coupled with the values of passion and drive, is essential for achieving high-quality infrastructure. If these values are compromised, it could result in poor infrastructure quality, posing environmental problems and undermining the overall success of the project.
Resource smoothing is cost_effective in terms of project management
Considering the project, I will prioritize resource smoothing because I believe it is cost-effective.
The MTD project is a deadline project. Projects have to be completed within a timeframe so that events that are scheduled to benefit from the water installations will not be affected and if it does it will impact them greatly.
In a case where issues arises, my best bet in dealing with resource overload is resource smoothing, although there will be a cost cost that will generate a cost variance, but then this is an ideal way to maximise resource efficiency. I don’t think it will be feasible to implement a resource leveling approach because of the timing effect.
Considering MTD’s role, I will prioritize resource leveling. Examining their provision of portable drinking water at sports events, this project must adhere to fixed deadlines preceding the main event. Prioritizing resource leveling is crucial to address the sensitivity of these deadlines, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently without overload or underutilization. Additionally, given the project’s complexity, resource leveling provides a structured approach to resource management, ensuring appropriate allocation. This approach is instrumental in meeting customer expectations and delivering high-quality services to MTD’s clients.