Resource levelling in project management is a technique used to address the over-allocation of resources and ensure a smooth and balanced distribution of work. It involves rescheduling tasks so that resources are allocated in an optimal way, ensuring that a resource is not assigned more work than it can handle at any given time. Here's how resource levelling works:
1. Identify Over-Allocation: The first step in resource levelling is to identify instances where resources are over-allocated, which means they have been assigned more work than they can realistically handle in the allotted time.
2. Analyze Task Dependencies: Understand the relationships between tasks and which tasks are dependent on others. This information is critical as adjusting the schedule of one task may impact other tasks.
3. Adjust Task Start and End Dates: Begin by adjusting the start and end dates of tasks. This can involve delaying the start of some tasks, extending the timeline, or in some cases, starting tasks earlier if resources are available.
4. Reassign Resources: If certain resources are over-allocated, see if there are other resources with free capacity who can take on some of the workload. This could mean reassigning tasks to different team members or using different equipment.
5. Split Tasks: In some cases, it may be beneficial to split a task into smaller parts. This can allow for part of the task to be completed when resources are available, and the remainder to be completed later.
6. Prioritize Tasks: Sometimes it’s not possible to have all tasks completed on the original schedule due to resource constraints. In this case, you need to prioritize tasks and allocate resources to the most critical tasks first.
7. Monitor and Reevaluate: Resource levelling is not a one-time activity. As the project progresses, you’ll need to continuously monitor resource allocation and be prepared to make further adjustments as needed.
8. Communicate Changes: Whenever changes are made to the project schedule or resource allocation, it’s important to communicate these changes to all stakeholders to ensure everyone is on the same page.
9. Use Project Management Software: Many project management software tools have built-in resource levelling features that can automate much of this process. These tools can be invaluable in helping to optimize resource allocation efficiently.
10. Keep an Eye on the Critical Path: While levelling resources, it’s crucial not to affect the critical path of the project, as this could delay the project completion date. Ensure that tasks on the critical path have the resources they need.
Resource levelling requires a balance between the project schedule, resource availability, and project priorities. It's a dynamic process that aims to make the best use of available resources for the successful completion of the project.