Resource Levelling

Correct Answer: Reschedule non-critical activities to reduce resource workload

Rescheduling non-critical activities to reduce resource workload is the best approach in this situation. In a scenario where a project is facing resource overallocation and temporary resources are not available for hire, the project manager needs to find ways within the existing setup to maintain the work load. By rescheduling non-critical activities, the manager can ensure resource availability for critical tasks. Continuing with the current schedule and assigning multiple tasks to resources can lead to resources being overworked which might impact quality and productivity. Asking the construction team to work weekends may not be legally or ethically viable, and might result in low morale and productivity. Terminating resource intensive activities may lead to a failure in delivering the project objectives.

Correct Answer: Delay the activities with float or greater flexibility

In project management, 'Resource leveling' is a technique used to resolve resource conflicts by delaying tasks by distributing the work evenly so that over-allocation of resources is avoided. The best technique to handle over-allocation is to adjust the start and end dates of tasks with 'float' or greater flexibility. Floating tasks are those tasks that can be delayed without delaying the project. This technique will allow for resources to be used more evenly, without negatively impacting the project timeline. The other options, decreasing the project scope, hiring more resources or compressing the project schedule, would either affect the project deliverables or increase the project costs, which are less desirable outcomes.

Correct Answer: Implement resource leveling, balance the demand and supply.

The best way to address the situation of overutilization of project resources is to 'Implement resource leveling, balance the demand and supply.' In this scenario, as a project manager, it would be wise to make optimal use of resources by leveling them. Resource leveling is a technique in project management that balances the demand for resources with the available supply. It helps to smooth out potential peaks and troughs in resource utilization, hence maximizing efficiency. Now, let's evaluate other answers to understand why they are incorrect. The option 'Increase the project's budget to hire more resources' is not the best solution, not all resource overutilization problems can be solved by just throwing more resources or money at them. Furthermore, additional resources also take time to recruit and train which can result in delays. The answer 'Overwork the resources to meet demand' is not a sustainable or ethical strategy. Overworking can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and potential mistakes due to fatigue. Lastly, 'Doing nothing and hoping the problem solves itself' is never a good project management strategy. Problems rarely solve themselves and can often compound and cause major issues down the line.