AAOM Handbook

SC.01 Identify Initial Scheduling Window Context

In all discussions relating to the Operating Model, the term scheduling is used to describe the process of defining the start time, sequence of execution and resource allocation for Tasks. The objectives of scheduling are firstly to ensure that all Tasks are completed at the right time, and secondly to make the most efficient use of resources while doing this. Achieving the first objective requires the construction of a schedule that completes each Work Order, and all of its Tasks, by its Required Date. To help achieve this every Task must have a Scheduled Date (start date) allocated soon after approval. Work Orders and Tasks created via the Work Scheduling System are automatically allocated a Scheduled Start date based on the trigger event and are also allocated an earliest and latest start date that is based on the specified trigger tolerance. However, when other Work Orders/Tasks are approved and first enter the scheduling process they will not have a Scheduled Start Date allocated. They will probably only have the basic requirements of an approved Work Order (including just a single Task) to define the work and provide guidance to set the Scheduled Start Date. An earliest and latest start date will not yet have been specified. To maximise the time available to effectively plan and resource each newly approved Work Order the first Task should be allocated a Scheduled Start Date as close to the Required Date as practical, while taking into account the most likely time required to complete all of the work (its most likely duration). The schedule period that falls ahead of the Required Date less the most likely duration for the work should be identified as the initial scheduling window. The Scheduling Process can then take into account the synergies and conflicts that may exist with other work in this schedule period when allocating a Scheduled Start Date for the first Task of the Work Order. Purpose To identify the schedule period from which the initial Scheduled Start Date for each newly approved Work Order/Task will be chosen. Quantity A scheduled period identified as the initial scheduling window for each newly approved Task within a Work Order.