The RecDel System is a low-cost software application that helps different groups of a complex project negotiate interfaces between interdependent schedules. The RecDel system is based on a concept of distributed planning, wherein the cognizant persons retain control over, and responsibility for, their own work; this contrasts with traditional centralized planning, in which responsibility and control are effectively transferred to central planners. RecDels are products, which flow between different areas of a project. The RecDel System makes it possible to identify product-specification and delivery-schedule disputes easily, solve problems quickly, eliminate schedule confusion, and verify receipt of deliveries. The RecDel System also supports action-item tracking as well as a limited earned-value capability. The outputs of the RecDel System include metric charts, Gantt charts, and a variety of text reports. Schedule reports can be generated at any time on any computer by any user for any level of the work breakdown structure. The RecDel System aids projects to effectively meet the demand for Faster, Better, Cheaper.
This program was written by Jacqueline Dunn, Steve Friedman, Glen Gira, Mark Girdner, Cate Heneghan, Michael W. Hughes, Richard G. Markley, Jancis Martin, Siuan McGahan, and Karen Morrissett of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line at www.nasatech.com/tsp under the Software category.
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Don Hart of the California Institute of Technology at (818) 393-3425. Refer to NPO-20915.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Web-Based Software for Distributed Planning
(reference NPO-20915) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document discusses the development and implementation of the RecDel System, a web-based software application created by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) at the California Institute of Technology for managing distributed planning in complex projects, particularly in research and development, aerospace, and software development sectors.
Traditionally, project planning has been centralized, which often leads to inefficiencies and disconnects between the individuals responsible for tasks and the planning process. Centralized planning creates a barrier, placing a layer of personnel between the responsible parties and their planning responsibilities, which can result in a lack of accountability and delays in project execution. The RecDel System aims to revolutionize this approach by enabling a distributed planning process that allows task managers to directly input and manage their schedules, thereby enhancing accountability and responsiveness.
The RecDel System focuses on tracking intermediate products, referred to as receivables and deliverables (R&Dels), which include designs, requirements, components, and tests. The software facilitates the connection and reporting of these R&Dels among different work areas, allowing for real-time updates and notifications regarding project status. This system eliminates the need for a centralized staff to mediate schedule conflicts, as task managers can address issues as they arise.
Key features of the RecDel System include ease of use, requiring only about 10 minutes of training for task managers, and a low-cost setup that can be completed in a couple of weeks for a typical project. The system generates metric reports and sends email notifications to relevant parties about approaching deadlines or late deliveries, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and can take timely action.
The document emphasizes the importance of immediate communication and tracking of deliverables, allowing for quick resolution of issues without the delays associated with traditional planning methods. The RecDel System is designed to adapt to the needs of the project, providing adequate tracking without overwhelming users with excessive detail.
In summary, the RecDel System represents a significant advancement in project management, promoting a more efficient, accountable, and responsive approach to planning and execution in complex projects.
