According to the PMBOK® Guide, Project Resource Management includes the processes to identify, acquire, and manage the resources needed for the successful completion of the project. A key evolution in the 6th and 7th editions is the explicit distinction and integration of both Team Resources (human) and Physical Resources (equipment, materials, facilities, and infrastructure).
Integrated Management: The project manager must identify various aspects of the team—such as specialized skills, availability, and reporting structures—not only to lead people but to ensure that the physical resources they use are managed and controlled efficiently.
Control Physical Resources: This specific task involves ensuring that the assigned physical resources are available to the project at the right time and are released when no longer needed. Efficiently managing the " team aspects " (who needs what and when) is the primary driver for successful physical resource control.
Scope of Knowledge Area: This knowledge area covers:
Plan Resource Management: Defining how to estimate, acquire, manage, and use resources.
Estimate Activity Resources: Quantifying what is needed.
Acquire Resources: Obtaining the team and physical assets.
Develop/Manage Team: Improving competencies and tracking performance.
Control Resources: Ensuring physical assets are utilized as planned.
Analysis of Other Options:
B. Procure equipment, materials, facilities, and infrastructure for the project: While these are physical resources, the act of " procuring " (contracting with external vendors) specifically belongs to Project Procurement Management. Resource Management focuses on the assignment and internal management of those assets once obtained.
C. Train the team members in project skill sets: This is an activity within the Develop Team process. While it is a task within Resource Management, it is a sub-activity rather than the overarching management and control aspect described in the primary objective of the knowledge area.
D. Define the roles and responsibilities of each team member: This is part of the Plan Resource Management process (specifically the Resource Management Plan). However, identifying team aspects to control physical resources (Option A) better represents the modern, holistic view of the knowledge area which balances human and material logistics.
