Custom Outline Code for Resources

Resources can also be grouped into meaningful categories. The most common categories include resources by the following:

• Resource breakdown structure (RBS)

• Location

• Skill set

• Certification

• Employment type

Resources by RBS

Resources by RBS is a code that not only helps the deploying organization to maintain a clear view of the distribution of resources throughout the enterprise but also interacts with the security model of Project 2003.

Maintenance of the RBS code can be costly, especially for large organizations that often reorganize their organizational structure.

When developing the resource breakdown structure, the deploying organization must consider the fact that Project 2003 RBS does not support mapping of dual-reporting or dotted-line reporting structures that often exist in an organization. In this case, an individual resource should be placed under the functional grouping that is financially responsible for his or her pay.

It is recommended that the RBS in Project 2003 be kept up to date to ensure proper reporting of resource availability.

Resources by Location

The Resources by Location grouping is useful for large organizations that operate in various geographic locations. Classifying the resource pool by geographic location helps the deploying organization understand the distribution of its resources and make informed decisions when it comes to balancing the work force.

Resources by Skill Set

One major challenge in today's project world is matching the skill set requirements of the projects with those available in an organization.

Project 2003 helps all stakeholders involved in the management of resources to determine what skill sets will be needed, in what projects, for how long, and when.

When forecasting the resource requirements is done properly, it allows project managers to achieve the goals of the projects they lead on time and within the allocated budget. It also allows the resource managers to consider all options when allocating resources to projects or to consider trade-offs when there is a shortage of a certain skill set.

When developing the skill set outline code, it may be useful to take into account the use of multivalue outline codes. The advantage of these codes is that they allow allocation of multiple skill sets to a particular resource. Multivalue outline codes also support multiple levels because skill sets can be grouped in meaningful structures.

CAUTION

When developing the skill set list, make sure that you list only skills relevant for the organization and at a level of detail that does not render the results of searching and filtering useless.

Resources by Certification

In many organizations, certain job functions can be performed only by certified workers. Depending on the size and scope of the resource pool, it may be a good idea for a deploying organization to develop such a resource outline code to facilitate identification of a certain type of resource.

NOTE

This chapter does not list any example values because they are specific to each profession, industry, and organization.

Resources by Type

A common way of grouping the resources is by type of employment. Today, more organizations consider various types of employment for their resources. The following is an example of type of employment values that could be used in an enterprise environment:

• Full-time employment

• Part-time employment

• Contractor

• Consultant

• Seasonal