Project schedules are basic project management tools that illustrate what work is to be done, how resources are to be organized, and the time frames required for the completion of the project. In the event that the resources (manpower, materials, equipment, information and time) needed are scarce, and time is limited, the flexibility of the project schedule helps in ensuring that all bridges are gapped. (Kerzner, 2013)
In some instances, the project managers do not have the full knowledge of the costs to be incurred and the time required to complete the project. There are some known facts which are then decomposed in detail and others which are not known and prompt the use of planning package. Individual resources are assigned to known planned events and planning packages where the estimates are tested on a given baseline plan and resource program plan. Any destruction in the inventory that could lead to project delays is catered for by the reserve resources set aside for unforeseen circumstances. It goes on through the life cycle of the project as tasks are matched to the resource type required. (Neumann, Schwindt & Zimmermann, 2003).
The duration indicated in the plan represents the account of real time required to complete the work while taking into consideration the skill and the general availability of the resource. Responsible parties are associated with the appropriate skill set to the work, and the resources are closely looked into to ensure that they meet the specified purposes.
Workload per person is also minimized through clear prioritization to ensure that only high quality work is produced. Smaller, regular assignments are also given to reduce elements of confusion while undertaking the tasks. Coupled with a comprehensive budget, effective planning also ensures that the scarce resources and time are managed efficiently towards the realization of the project objectives (Taylor & Dow, 2013).
Project teams are also formulated, and project managers assigned to different teams in order to monitor the actions of the workers. With the duties assigned to everyone, the projects are completed in the best way possible since specialists are assigned duties in their areas of specialization. The managers use appropriate tactics to motivate the workers such as performance appraisals. It increases the workers morale and ensures that they are able to work without or under little supervision, and this helps in the effective utilization of the scarce resources. Timely completion of the tasks will also ensure that resources are not wasted since less time will be required to complete tasks, and; therefore, the other time will be directed to other vital areas.
References
Kerzner, H. (2013). Project management. 1st ed. Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Neumann, K., Schwindt, C. and Zimmermann, J. (2003).Project scheduling with time windows and scarce resources. 1st ed. Berlin: Springer.
Taylor, B. and Dow, W. (2013).Project management communications bible. 1st ed. Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley.
