Resource Leveling & Optimization Flashcards

What is a resource histogram used for in project scheduling?

Answer: Showing resource demand per time period to identify over- or under-allocation

A resource histogram displays resource usage (hours, units) per time period, making over-allocation peaks and underutilization valleys immediately visible.

Which of the following is a valid resource optimization technique that does NOT alter the project logic network?

Answer: Reassigning work to an alternative resource with the same skill set

Assigning an alternate resource with equivalent skills resolves over-allocation without touching the network logic, preserving schedule integrity.

A scheduler is told the project must finish by its contractual date and cannot be extended. Which resource optimization approach is most appropriate when a resource is over-allocated?

Answer: Resource smoothing, adjusting only within available float

When the end date is fixed, resource smoothing is preferred because it resolves conflicts only within existing float without pushing the project finish.

In a resource-constrained project, what does the term 'resource calendar' define?

Answer: The working times, non-working times, and capacity for a specific resource or resource category

A resource calendar specifies when a resource is available, including work shifts, holidays, and vacations, and is essential input to resource leveling calculations.

What effect does resource leveling have on the schedule's total float?

Answer: Total float typically decreases or is consumed as activities are delayed

Delaying activities to resolve resource over-allocation consumes float, often converting previously non-critical activities into critical or near-critical ones.

Which input is MOST critical when running an automated resource leveling algorithm in scheduling software?

Answer: Accurate resource availability and maximum units defined in resource calendars

The algorithm needs accurate resource calendars and maximum unit values to calculate feasible schedules; incorrect availability data produces invalid leveled schedules.

A project manager asks why the leveled schedule shows several activities on the critical path that were not critical before leveling. What is the BEST explanation?

Answer: Leveling consumed float by delaying activities to resolve over-allocations, creating new critical paths

When activities are delayed to resolve resource conflicts, their float is consumed and they can become critical, effectively shifting or extending the critical path.