Abstract: Methods of operating a digital computer to optimize project scheduling. Where the overall effects of a schedule, such as total project duration or cost, are unsatisfactory, the schedule is processed iteratively so that on each iteration a particular task is selected for modification according to a preset policy and data defining an aspect of that task is adjusted in a small step. A schedule is further optimized to fit the available resources by a repetitive process of assigning resources having the proper capabilities to tasks according to a predetermined order of tasks and testing whether the assigned resource can permit shortening of the task duration. Further methods select an optimum mix of capabilities to be provided by each of several resources to be hired for a project.