Workload Introduction
The objective of a workload modeling tool is to develop a mathematical model that can be used to predict manpower requirements based on a description of the projects planned. History has taught us that WLM tools consistently require six components:
- drivers,
- given,
- inputs,
- algorithm,
- curves, and
- output.
Drivers
To calculate workload one must understand what drives work. In some cases work is driven by product change from one year to the next. In other cases, work is driven by units manufactured or events planned. In addition to identifying what drives work, the user must decide if the elements that drive work differ the farther in the future that works is predicted. For example, in a university setting the course schedule for the next two semesters could be used to calculate workload. To calculate workload for two or three years out, enrollment predictions would be a better factor.
Given
Once an understanding is reached about what drives work, it must be determined what information is already available (given) versus information that will need to be compiled (input). The goal is to automatically acquire as much information as possible through uploads, synchronization, or real-time linking.
In the case of work driven by product plans for example, it is recommended to acquire a direct link to the existing plan. In an automotive setting this plan may be a list of vehicle configurations.
Inputs
Once it has been decided what information is available, a decision must be made as to what information will need to be entered. This represents the value added by the user. One method of providing input is measuring the degree of change from one year to next. A simple product content sheet, as illustrated to the right, is a user-friendly method of gathering degree of change by component without the user needing to worry about headcounts at this stage of the process.
Algorithm
The algorithm defines the methodology that brings the drivers, the givens and the inputs together to calculate workload.
Curves
The curves define how work is spread over time.
Output
How does the user want to see their output?
- Granularity: weeks, months, quarters, years, etc.
- Topic: Horizontal (Function) and/or Vertical (Product)
- Value: Cost and/or Headcount
An effective method of displaying headcount is the popular mountain chart, or Workload Sandart as we call it.