An Optimized Approach to Resource Loading Hyperscale Technology Projects to Balance Feasibility, Suitability, and Acceptability

Abstract

In the construction industry, project schedules are invariably dynamic, uncertain, and subject to significant change thru the execution cycle. Therefore, effective planning and scheduling are fundamental activities and correlate closely with the success or failure of a project. Unfortunately, schedule approach invariably focuses on timing, durations, and milestones without equitable consideration to the interconnection between resource availability, capabilities, and schedule feasibility. A project schedule that does not include resource allocations implies that the contractor has unlimited resources and has the flexibility to apply all necessary resources to a project change, without incurring added costs. Unlike traditional scheduling techniques, Resourced Loaded Scheduling captures & integrates the interdependencies between activities and resources and effective utilization. Moreover, it involves the prioritization of activities based on utilization strategies, determination of resource availabilities, and the utilization of alternate resources. By doing so, decisions about capacity are incorporated into the scheduling process. The project hypothesis, which was partially confirmed, stated that depending on project type, parameters and financial thresholds need to be established for Resource Loaded Schedules (RLS) to achieve optimum results. The research included examination of effective Resource Management and Scheduling from literature, peer reviewed article publications, interviews with Subject Matter Experts and a case study implementing Resource Loaded Scheduling on a capacity project, executed in a finite time period.