Resource vs. Task Dependency

[jhn]

Can MS-Project differentiate between a resource and a task dependency? In
MS-Project there is only 1 type of dependency but it would be nice to know if
that dependency is resource or task dependent--it would allow the easy update
of adding resources to crash the schedule and knowing which dependencies can
be redirected. Does anyone know if this can be done with the current
version? I have MS-Project 2000.

 

[JackD]

No it can not be done in the current version. I have suggested that
Microsoft add this capability, but they have not done anything to implement
it as far as I know.

 

[Steve House [MVP]]

You can get much the same effect with resource calendars and the leveling
engine although it doesn't give you any graphical indication of a "link."
Task dependencies sequence tasks based on their logical relationships in the
project's physical processes. Resource dependencies sequence tasks based on
the availability of the resources required to do the work. How does that
differ from Project's present method of leveling to sequence tasks to
resolve overallocations, coupled with using task priorities to establish a
preferred after-leveling order and the behavior of the resource calendar
governing what time periods in which it is possible for the task to occur?
As far as I know, "resource dependencies" allow the PM to say "I want Joe to
do tasks A and B and since I already know he's not going to be able to do
both of them at the same time, I sequence them with a link." But that's
just doing manually what leveling does for you.
--
Steve House [MVP]
MS Project Trainer & Consultant
Visit http://www.mvps.org/project/faqs.htm for the FAQs