Update Your Microsoft Project 2013 File To Include Recycling

Update your Microsoft Project 2013 file (.mpp) to include resources and resource assignments

Using the Microsoft Project files that you updated for Assignment 5, add resources to your project using the resources sheet. Please define all types of resources including Work, Material, and Cost. At a minimum, complete the following fields for each human resource: Resource Name, Type, Initials, Max, Std. Rate, Base (Calendar). You can choose to use role names or birth names. For other resource types, complete Cost/Use. Once the resources have been added to the project file, assign those resources to the tasks that you defined in the project schedule. Multiple resources can be assigned to the same task. Resources should not be assigned to summary level tasks. Chapters 7 and 8 of the Ambriz book include step-by-step instructions for completing these tasks. The sample file link is a Microsoft Project file that will give you an idea of what your completed Unit 6 assignment will look like. Rubric Sample Microsoft Project File including Resources and Resource Assignments

Paper For Above instruction

The process of integrating resources within a project schedule in Microsoft Project 2013 is vital for effective project management, ensuring optimal resource utilization and accurate cost estimations. Proper resource assignment promotes efficient scheduling, reduces delays, and provides visibility into resource workloads, thereby enhancing overall project control and success.

In the context of the assignment, resource management begins with setting up the resource sheet, where all resources—human, material, and cost—are defined and detailed. The resource sheet serves as the foundation for tracking resource availability, costs, and assignments throughout the project lifecycle.

Creating and Defining Resources

To properly incorporate resources, project managers start by adding human resources, specifying essential details such as resource name, type (work, material, or cost), initials, maximum units, standard rate, and base calendar. The "Type" field determines whether the resource is a work resource (people), material (physical items), or cost (expenses). Accurate details facilitate precise scheduling and cost management.

For example, a project team member might be entered as a work resource with a specific hourly rate, availability (Max units), and work calendar. Material resources, such as cement or equipment, are added with usage costs, whereas cost resources, like permits or consultancy fees, are assigned fixed costs per use.

Assigning Resources to Tasks

Once resources are established in the resource sheet, the next step involves assigning them to specific tasks in the project schedule. Multiple resources can be assigned to a single task when necessary, which accurately reflects complex work environments. Assignments are made via the Task Information dialog box or directly within the Gantt chart view.

It is important to exclude assigning resources to summary tasks, as this can lead to inaccuracies in resource allocation and cost calculations. Instead, detailed resource assignments should be made at the individual activity level for granular control and better tracking.

Practical Considerations and Best Practices

Effective resource management involves balancing resource availability with project demands. Over-allocating resources should be avoided unless intentional, as this can lead to burnout or project delays. The resource leveling feature in Microsoft Project can assist in resolving over-allocations by adjusting task schedules or resource assignments.

Additionally, maintaining updated resource data, including rates and calendars, ensures accurate project cost estimates and timelines. Regular monitoring and adjusting of resource allocations are essential for responding to project changes and unforeseen issues.

Lessons from Chapters 7 and 8 of Ambriz’s Book

The referenced chapters provide step-by-step guidance on resource setup and assignment procedures, emphasizing best practices such as verifying resource availability before assignment, avoiding over-allocations, and properly formatting resource information. These chapters serve as a practical guide for project managers to implement resource management effectively within Microsoft Project.

Conclusion

Successfully incorporating resources into a Microsoft Project schedule enhances project control, resource utilization, and cost accuracy. By following structured procedures for resource entry and assignment, project managers can ensure a well-coordinated, resource-efficient project plan. Continuous monitoring and adjustments, supported by proper tools within Microsoft Project, are key to successful project execution.

References

• Ambriz, J. (2014). Project management with Microsoft Project 2013. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
• Larson, R. (2010). Microsoft Project 2010 Bible. John Wiley & Sons.
• Kerzner, H. (2017). Project management: A systems approach to planning, scheduling, and controlling. John Wiley & Sons.
• Gido, J., & Clements, J. (2013). Successful project management. Cengage Learning.
• Heldman, K. (2018). Project management jumpstart. John Wiley & Sons.
• Microsoft. (2013). Microsoft Project 2013 Step by Step. Microsoft Press.
• PMI. (2017). A guide to the project management body of knowledge (PMBOK guide). Project Management Institute.
• Schwalbe, K. (2015). Information technology project management. Cengage Learning.
• Kerzner, H. (2013). Strategic project management. John Wiley & Sons.
• Zwikael, O., & Smyrk, J. (2011). Project management for the creation of organisational value. Springer.