Fixed duration Vs fixed work tasks??

[reb-clo]

Hi

I am working with a project manager who says he was advised to create a set
of tasks as fixed work tasks. However, these are bucket tasks so we are not
able to accurately estimate how much work they require.

I suggested to him that he uses fixed duration instead. Would this work? he
said that he was told not to use thit task type, but I don't know why.

Would changing it to fixed duration now upset anything, as protected actuals
have been booked against these tasks.

Thanks!

 

[Dave]

If they are bucket tasks, then fixed work is proabably not the best
choice. Fixed duration may be more appropriate depending on how the
start and end of the tasks are defined. Irrespective of which option
you choose, you always have the same difficulty in estimating the work
they require.

Changing them would not upset anything. It sounds as though you are
using Project Server and would probably do better posting on
microsoft.public.project.server.

It may be coprorate policy to stipulate that fixed work is used (some
people claim that fixed duration and fixed units give unexpected results
although I have not personally had problems with those options).

 

[Jim Aksel]

FYI, here's a little info on the different task types that may help you when
discussing with your PM. The use of either of these task types is very
common... no reason to exclude any particular task type.

Work=Duration x Units. Pick two, the third is calculated. Project will
"freeze" a value depending on the task type.

Fixed Work. Altering Units changes duration because work is fixed. This
allows nine women to have a baby in one month. Altering duration will alter
units %.

Fixed Duration. Changing work will change units%. Changing unit% changes
work. If the task is "Effort Driven"=checked... keeps the total task work at
its current value, regardless of how many resources are assigned to the task.
When new resources are assigned, remaining work is distributed to them.

Fixed Units. Resources are held constant at the stated percentage.
Changing work changes duration. The same rules apply for "Effort Driven" as
above.

In your case, it appears fixed duration is the best answer. It may be that
you cannot define the "duration" but you know the kick off task and
termination task. Example, managment support starts with contract award
milestone and ends with the project complete milestone. In this case, a
Hammock Task is in order. Select the link below, then go to FAQ and read
FAQ#19 Hammock Tasks if you believe this may apply.
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Jim
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