Resources are the most important instruments to complete a project. If resources are properly allocated to project activities and aligned towards achieving the project objectives, then the chances of success of project increase manifold. On the other hand, if the resources are not managed properly, it may result in waste of money, time and other resources and therefore, the project may fail to achieve its objectives. The project resource management is therefor crucial for the success of any project.
The PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge) is a framework that provides guidelines for project management. It defines the processes, inputs, tools, and techniques that are necessary for successful project management. Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) has defined certain processes to manage resources of the project. In this article, we will learn about those processes.
Index
Processes Included in Project Resource Management
The PMBOK identifies following six main processes in project resource management.
Plan Resource Management
Estimate Activity Resources
Acquire Resources
Develop Team
Manage Team
Control Resource
Above processes belong to different process groups or different phases of the project, the mapping of which is demonstrated in the table below:
Process Mapping of Project Resource Management Knowledge Area
Let us now discuss each process in detail:
Plan Resource Management
This process is the part of ‘planning process group’. This process involves developing a plan to manage project resources based on project requirements, constraints, and organizational policies. The resource management plan outlines how resources will be acquired, developed, managed, and released throughout the project.
The Input, tools and output of this process is as follows:
Estimate Activity Resources
This process also belongs to the planning process group. This process involves identifying the types and quantities of resources required for each project activity. The resources can include personnel, equipment, materials, and facilities. This process is closely related to the project scope, schedule, and budget, as the availability and use of resources impact these project elements.
The Input, tools and output of this process is as follows:
Acquire Resources
This process is a part of ‘Executing Process Group’. This process involves obtaining the necessary resources, such as personnel, equipment, and materials, to complete project activities. The project manager must consider factors such as resource availability, skill level, cost, and timing when acquiring resources.
The Input, tools and output of this process is as follows:
Develop Team
This process is also a part of ‘Executing Process Group’. This process involves building a cohesive project team by selecting, training, and developing team members. The project manager must consider team member skills, experience, and personality when selecting and developing team members.
The Input, tools and output of this process are as follows:
Manage Team
This process also belongs to the ‘Executing Process Group’. This process involves tracking team member performance, providing feedback, and resolving conflicts to ensure the team is working effectively. The project manager must be able to identify and address performance issues promptly to ensure the project stays on track.
The Input, tools and output of this process are as follows:
Control Resources
This process is a part of ‘Monitor & Control’ process group. This process involves monitoring resource utilization to ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively throughout the project. The project manager must be able to identify and address resource issues promptly to ensure the project stays on track.
Conclusion
Effective resource management begins with the planning process group, where project managers develop a resource management plan and estimate the resources required for each project activity. The acquiring process group involves obtaining the necessary resources, while the developing process group involves selecting and developing the project team. The managing process group is focused on tracking team member performance and resolving conflicts, while the monitoring and controlling process group involves monitoring resource utilization and addressing issues promptly.
Project managers must consider various factors when managing resources, including availability, cost, skill level, and timing. They must also be able to identify and address performance and resource issues promptly to ensure that the project stays on track. Effective project resource management requires strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
In conclusion, project resource management is an essential component of project management, and project managers must be able to manage resources effectively to ensure project success. By following the processes outlined in the PMBOK, project managers can develop a comprehensive resource management plan, acquire the necessary resources, develop a high-performing project team, manage team performance, and monitor and control resource utilization throughout the project. Effective project resource management requires a combination of technical and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and address issues promptly.
Also read: Project Quality Management: Processes and Methods as Defined in PMBOK
