We will present to you three different approaches for optimizing schedules. In all three, we include consideration of quality and scope as well. Because these two dimensions do not differentiate the approaches, we have not included the words scope or quality in the name of each approach. The different approaches are:

• Optimizing for Time

  This approach is also known as optimizing under the assumption of unlimited resources. The other approaches will not assume that you have access to unlimited resources. You have access to unlimited resources if you can hire and fire any resources you need when you need them. Instead of firing, being able to release your resources to other projects within the company also meets this criterion. Having unlimited resources also implies and assumes that cost is not of primary concern to you and that you only need to consider the forces quality, scope and time. The common technique used in this situation is the Critical Path Method (CPM). Many industries have been using CPM for decades. Typically, the construction and consulting industries apply CPM. These industries tend to hire and release resources on an as-needed basis, often working with temporary or free-lance resources. Other industries find this optimization too narrow, particularly when cost is a concern or resources are not readily available.

• Optimizing for Time and Cost

  If you have a limited budget and cost is your concern, you should apply this approach. It is also applicable if...