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Without extensive resource planning, a project will not succeed. Although this may seem obvious, a resource plan goes beyond just words on a page. A project manager must be involved in resource availability before your team can bask in all the glory of a successful project.
Project resource management encompasses resource planning, resource availability, and resource management. Project resource management is a living process that guides your project from start-to-finish and ensures proper resource usage.
Resource availability and allocation go beyond spreadsheets. I am an expert on project plans and resources. Let’s take a closer look to these terms, their meanings, how they work, and what this all means for you and your team.
This article explains.
What is Resource Availability?
Resource Planning
Resource Management and Optimization
Resource Planning and Allocation
What is Resource Availability?
Before a project can get off the ground, it is essential that a project manager takes stock of the availability of resources. Resource availability, or the availability of resources, is the amount of resources required to complete a project. There are many factors that determine resource availability. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
People Resources
You can choose your team, but it is important to consider how your project team matches the project’s requirements. Planning people resources is one the most important tasks in resource forecasting. It requires constant reevaluation.
People resource planning: Who are your project team members and when are they available to you? Many employees have multiple responsibilities and work on other projects. Are these team members able to devote enough time to your project?
People resource availability: What other scheduling conflicts can arise that could compromise your team’s efficiency and productivity? General meetings, for example, can consume valuable resources and take up hours.
Resource pool: Does your team have the ability to handle the project scope? Are there skills gaps that require the help of people outside your team?
Other resources for project management
Your project is more likely to not exist in a bubble.
Project tools: Does your team have the right tools (hardware,software, etc.)? They have all the tools (hardware, software, etc.) they need to complete the task. Your team can they work around delays in delivering the goods?
Resource Planning
Once a project manager has established the availability of resources, they can then determine how to use them to achieve their project goals. There is no one way to allocate resources. However, there are many variables to consider.
Trust the experts
When possible, consult with experts in your field who understand your project’s goals and purpose. If this is not possible for your entire project look at the smaller goals within your project. Are there similar objectives in other departments or teams? Ask other project leaders for their opinion on how to allocate resources and how to do it.
Expect the Unexpected
There are many solutions to your project’s problems. Although it may seem that there is one way to solve all your problems, it is not wise to base your entire project around one solution. Analyze other options to achieve your project’s goals. You should have a backup plan in place in case of an emergency.
Keep track of your internal and external data
What other resources are available to you to help you determine resource availability? For guidance on resource allocation, consult subject matter experts and data from outside your company and team.
The Theory of Constraints
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