MAX UNITS

[RCR]

I've seen several threads on this topic, but haven't seen the particular
problem that I am seeing with my install of Project 2000.

When I enter a *new* task, then enter WORK as my estimate (allowing project
to calculate DURATION), and then assign a resource (set at 80% MAX UNITS),
Project doesn't do what I want.

For example:

I enter Task1. I enter 2d WORK (duration stays at the default 1d?). Then I
select my resource (set at 80% MAX).

Project will then automatically set the resource at 200% to accomodate the
2d WORK and 1d DURATION that is there...

If I enter 1d WORK w/ the default 1d? DURATION, and then select a resource,
Proejct sets the UNITS to 100%

If I enter .5d WORK w/ the default 1d? duration, and then select a resource,
Project sets the UNTIS to 50%.

I don't understand why project is doing this with fixed unit, effort driven
tasks--udjusting UNITS--instead of adjusting the DURATION (based on the UNITS
and WORK entered).

Now, if I go back and "reselect" my resource, I get the desired resullt. 80%
MAX with a slightly extended DURATION based on the WORK (1d of WORK = 1.25d
DURATION)...but, I can hardly advise all of my PMs to make sure to select the
resource twice...


Any advice on this irksome issue?





RCR

 

[JackD]

Max units is used only to calculate utilization. It has no effect on how a
resource is assigned to a task.
Note that Project is not "adjusting" units, it is calculating them according
to the inputs you give it. It does this differently when you first enter a
task than it does when you adjust a task (by CHANGING units, work or
duration). You could try entering the duration and work so they work out to
80%.

-Jack Dahlgren

 

[St Dilbert]

Following your sequence in Project 2003: 80% will be assigned on "first
assignment" - don't know, whether this would be enough of a reason to
upgrade, though....

 

[RCR]

Following your sequence in Project 2003: 80% will be assigned on "first
assignment" - don't know, whether this would be enough of a reason to
upgrade, though....

Yeah, I downloaded 2003 to see if it handled the situation better, and it
does. It offers that little error icon, and I can then set the right
behavior going forward. Not sure if this will drive an upgrade or not. Ugh.




RCR