What does resource over-allocation refer to?

Resource over-allocation refers to a situation where the demand for a resource exceeds its available supply. This typically occurs when more tasks are assigned to a specific resource than it can handle effectively within the given timeframe. For instance, if an individual is assigned to work on multiple tasks that collectively require more hours than that person can physically work in a week, they are considered over-allocated.

Recognizing over-allocation is important in project management because it can lead to decreased productivity, increased stress on resources, and potential delays in project timelines. Efficient resource management aims to balance workloads to avoid such scenarios, ensuring that resources are utilized according to their availability and capacity.

The other choices do not accurately describe resource over-allocation. For example, underutilizing resources suggests that they are not being fully utilized, which is the opposite of over-allocation. Redistributing resources focuses on managing and reallocating resources rather than exceeding their capacity. Maintaining resource efficiencies is about optimizing resource use, which also contrasts with the concept of over-allocation.