AAOM Handbook

PL.18 Specify Earliest Start Date Context

A work package is to define all the requirements for sustainably (i.e. dealing responsibly with safety, the environment, employees, communities, governments and asset life), correctly and efficiently completing work. The detailed planning process has defined the Outcomes, Specifications, Work Method, Sequence, Duration and Dependencies of the Tasks comprising the work. The combination of these factors determines the minimum duration for the whole work package. While work must be commenced by the Latest Start Date, it may be more effective to schedule work ahead of this date to take advantage of opportunities in the Routine Operating Schedule or synergies with other work packages etc. However, there is a boundary on how far work can easily be pulled forward on the schedule, defined by the normal lead time necessary to obtain resources. This boundary on how far work can be pulled forward in the Schedule is known as the Earliest Start Date. The Earliest Start Date is essential information for scheduling the work, and must be specified as soon as progress with the detailed planning allows. Purpose To specify the earliest start date for each Task. Quantity One date by which all resources for a Task can be available. Quality The Earliest Start Date can be determined from the latest promised delivery or available date for;  labour,  stock items,

 purchased materials,  contract resources,  specialised tools, services and equipment. Time

This activity must be completed in time for all of the planning, scheduling and resourcing activities for the work to be completed before the Scheduled Start Date for the Task(s).

© McAlear Management Consultants 2004

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