Regardless of how simple, complex, large or small your project is you will need resources in order to complete it.
A resource is any material, machine, person or software that is integral to the success of your project. Ensuring you have the right resource at the right time and place that it is needed is where resource management comes into play.
What do you need?
People to manage and fulfill tasks
Machinery, tools and vehicles to enable them to carry out work
Raw materials, components and supplies that make up the product or service.
Where do you need it?
Usually at the project worksite or manufacturing facility however the transport and logistics behind getting everything to your location as you require it is part of resource management.
How many are required?
Goes without saying whether it is 1 or 100 of anything you still have to know “how many are required?” This comes from experience and knowledge of your particular field.
You also need to consider the productivity (of human resources especially) level in resource management. There’s no point in throwing all your equipment and people at a task and having 50% not being utilized.
When do you need it?
Obviously referring to your project schedule you will have a fair idea of when you physically need your resources in place. It is worth bearing in mind you will also need to note any mobilization time necessary to get your resource to where you want them when you want them – this is your “lead time” when it applies to materials & machinery; “availability” or “workload” when it comes to staff & subcontractors.
Ultimately efficiency & productivity in any project will be a reflection of how well resources are being allocated and managed.
