In this article, we will focus on two particular methods of balancing a project: - Fast Tracking: Is a technique that compresses the project schedule by allowing activities to be performed in parallel for some portion of the time rather than completing activities in sequence that are not dependent on one another.
- Crashing: is a strategy that compresses the project schedule by adding resources to a project.
We will focus on the Gantt chart. This is actually a method of graphically representing the project (dry dock) schedule as a timeline of summary activities, work packages and schedule activities so that the timing of each activity can be clearly seen.
One of the benefits of a Gantt chart is that it allows the project manager to see at a glance how much schedule flexibility an activity has in order to make adjustments to the schedule to achieve an optimal project schedule.
Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
As part of the dry dock managing team, it is vital that you are aware of what the WBS involves. The key purpose of the WBS as a project management tool is to enable the supervisor manager and the team to organize, plan and define the project’s total scope of work. In essence is the hierarchical decomposition of the work to be executed by the shipyard team.
The WBS can be represented in two main formats: - List format - Graphical format
- Better communication to project sponsors, stakeholders and team members
- More accurate estimation of tasks, risks, timeline and costs
- Increased confidence that 100% of the work is identified and included
- A foundation for the control process within the project
Project compression strategies Image used for illustrative purposes only
It’s often the case that one or more of the drydock constraints (scope, quality, schedule, budget, resources and risks) will make it difficult or even impossible for a project to meet its planned objectives. Where this occurs, the project will need to be balance. Balancing the drydock project means to adjust the plan, for example the scheduling of activities or allocation of resources, or even its main objectives (time, cost, quality and scope) to achieve organizational objectives. In other words, a project parameter such as budget or schedule duration cannot be changed without affecting other parts of the project.
The list format can accommodate a lot more information and a sample can be found in figure below.
Creating a WBS is a structured but flexible process where work and deliverables are arranged into logical clusters. These clusters can then be broken down further to form smaller discrete components. The smallest work component or lowest level deliverable of any branch of a WBS is called a “work package”. A deliverable – oriented WBS provides many benefits to the project, including the following:
Where there is a projected shortfall in time, funding, or resources available, the situation should be assessed realistically in order to allow for proper remediation where possible.
The essential project team A big factor in successful project and therefore drydock management lies in selecting the right project team members for the job, understanding the interpersonal qualities of different team members, building positive team sentiment and assigning responsibilities effectively.
How to create a positive team environment
There are four general areas in which a project manager can ensure that the work environment is positive: - Ground rules: Rules should be communicated from the beginning to all team members and these should be upheld. Ground rules serve to establish specific values and contribute to the way team members interact.
- Team identity and significance: Individual should be unified by the project goal and understand how they contribute to that goal both individually and as a team.
- Clear listening: Team members need to be able to communicate and listen effectively to successfully solve problems.
- Effective meetings: Meetings should be well organized and should enhance collaboration to achieve high levels of productivity. There should be a clear purpose and agenda for each meeting, which is published ahead of time for more formal meetings.
Once team members are working in an environment that is positive and where they feel they are respected and valued, they will likely form relationships with fellow team members and take personal ownership of their work and of the project’s goal.
The Report • June 2022 • Issue 100 | 63
Image used for illustrative purposes only
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