Forecasting feature

F

frs

I am trying to determine best way to forecast resource usage for the year
using Project Server. So if we have a list of projects with high level effort
estimates how can then I use Project Server to level my resources and
determine the number of resources required to complete certain number of
projects in a given time?

Any help/tips would be appreciated!

In the past I have done it in one big MS Project File and by assigning
generic resources and then assigning them n x 100% allocation.
 
M

Marc Soester [MVP]

Hi frs,

firstly which version of Proejct Server do you use. Depending on the
version, you have different options.
2003, you will need to assign resources to tasks ( probably high level tasks)
2007, you can createa a resource plan for a project, meaning you dont need
to assing the resource to a task, you tell project server how many resources
you need and for how long you need them. ( much easier for forecasting usage)
I hope this helps
 
F

frs

Marc -

Thanks for the quick response. We are using MS Project 2007 Enterprise
version. We have a list of about 20 projects that we need to execute as a
team over the next 3 months and x number of resources. We have high level
estimates for each project. I am wondering should I set up one project (for
forecasting purpose) with each actual project as a task and assign all
resources to that one project and then assign resources as you suggested or
is there a more streamlined way of managing it?

Thanks again for your help!
 
F

frs

Hey Marc -

That is a good idea. I will try setting up a resource plan and see what I
get. Can I assign more than one project to a Resource Plan? I am wondering
whether I need to create one plan with all the projects listed in it or
multiple project plans?

Thanks -
 
M

Marc Soester [MVP]

Hi frs,

tyoically you set up a resource plan per project. what you may be able to do
is set up a Masterproject ( or Program ) and associate a resource plan with
the program. generally I would set up a resource plan per project.
Hope this helps
Marc
--
Marc Soester [MVP]
State Manager: EPM
http://marcsoester.blogspot.com
 
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