Bell, G. A. with J. O. Jenkins, "Investigation Software project Resource Planning: An outline of a Proposed Multiple Case Study Research Approach", 1994
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The use of system dynamics (SD) is proposed to assist project managers in examining the consequences of their resources distribution plans. Justification of the selection of this technique is given, in particular why it is purposed as an alternative to statistical forecasting techniques. The focus of the research is to provide insights into how to reduce schedule slippages, which is thought to be a common dynamic behavioral problem. One objective in reaching this goal is to identify common SD structures. An overview of the original SD research contribution to the software engineering discipline is given. A brief description of the problem tackled and the model findings are outlined. Criticisms of the research process are developed to justify parts of our approach. To ensure that this practical research investigations is both relevant to managers and scientifically rigorous, a selection of both qualitative and quantitative methods are suggested to assist with the first objective. These are briefly justified and discussed in this paper.