What planning approach specifically manages project resource availability?

The correct answer is resource leveling, which is a planning approach that specifically focuses on managing the availability of resources within a project. Resource leveling aims to resolve resource conflicts by adjusting the project schedule to ensure that resources are not over-allocated or stretched too thin across multiple tasks.

This method is particularly useful in scenarios where resources are limited, and project managers want to ensure that workloads are balanced over time. It may involve delaying some tasks or assigning them to different times when resources are available, thus improving overall project efficiency and avoiding burnout or resource shortages.

In contrast, critical path method primarily focuses on identifying the longest sequence of dependent tasks that dictate the minimum duration of a project rather than managing resource availability directly. Resource allocation refers to the process of assigning available resources to various project tasks, but it does not necessarily account for constraints or conflicts over time, which is a key aspect of resource leveling. Risk management pertains to identifying and mitigating potential risks throughout the project lifecycle and doesn't specifically address resource availability.