Resource leveling for a mass digitization project

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss the nature of the project management concept of resource leveling, particularly how it can be utilized for grant‐funded mass digitization projects where time, cost and available resources – the elements of the project scope triangle – are in tension with each other to define the scope and quality of a project.Design/methodology/approachThis article presents a case study of resource leveling for a mass digitization project in an academic library. Details on the use of resource leveling through deconstructing activities, smoothing and alternative scheduling are described in relation to this project.FindingsResource leveling techniques can assist digitization project managers to meet project milestones on time and within budget and may be particularly useful for digitization projects with limited budgets.Originality/valueAs digitization projects become more universal for libraries and cultural heritage institutions, this original case study offers insights into applying no‐cost project management techniques.