Operational planning

What is operational planning?

Operational planning is the systematic process of allocating resources to different construction projects in order to utilise man-hours efficiently and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.

Main task of operational planning

The main task of operational planning is to optimise the allocation of productive hours of human resources to ongoing construction projects. This requires careful analysis and coordination of the available labour force with the specific requirements of the projects.

The importance of scheduling in the construction industry

In the construction industry, effective scheduling is critical to the success of a project. It enables precise control over the deployment of labour and machinery, reduces idle time and increases productivity.

Necessary tools for operational planning

Construction programmes or construction schedules: A construction programme or construction schedule defines the productive hours required - also known as loads - over the course of the construction project.

Calculations: Costings help to set out the average hourly rate for the work and plan the necessary resources accordingly.

Building Information Modelling (BIM): Alternatively, the productive hours required can be obtained via an interface to Building Information Modelling (BIM).

The aim of operational planning

The main objective of operational planning is to allocate personnel resources in such a way that the planned productive hours match the calculated productive hour requirement or the calculated effort. This ensures efficient utilisation of resources and contributes to the timely completion of projects.

Two types of operational planning: project planning vs. resource planning

Definition of project planning

In project planning, the project takes centre stage and personnel and inventory resources are planned for it. In addition, all information about the project is shown - for example, which employees are working on it, when and with which inventory resources.

Definition of resource planning

Resource planning, on the other hand, focuses on the resource and the projects are allocated to it. All information about the resource is displayed - for example, its absences, the assigned projects and how busy the resource is.

Differences and areas of application

Project planning is more suitable for larger projects that require several people and inventory resources, while resource planning is ideal for smaller projects that are only implemented by one person.

Implementation of operational planning

Three steps to successful operational planning:

Needs assessment: analysing the resource requirements for each project.
Resource allocation: Allocation of available resources according to project requirements.
Monitoring and adjustment: Continuous monitoring of resource utilisation and adjustment if necessary.

Categorisation and planning interval

Ideally, operational planning is carried out according to types of work or project phases; personnel can be categorised according to qualification or function. It is not advisable to categorise them too finely.

With regard to the control function, operational planning should cover the entire project. In executing companies, the planning interval is weekly, in planning offices weekly or even monthly.

Effects of operational planning on project performance

Increased efficiency: Precise operational planning can significantly increase the efficiency and productivity of projects.

Cost reduction: Optimising the use of resources leads to a reduction in project costs.

Adherence to deadlines: With effective operational planning, projects can be completed on time, which increases customer satisfaction.What is the main task of operational planning?