Resource in Project Management – Definition and Meaning
A resource in project management refers to any type of input required to carry out project activities and achieve project objectives. This typically includes human resources (personnel, team members with specific skills), material resources (equipment, machinery, materials), financial resources (budget), and intangible resources (e.g. software licenses). Resources are planned, allocated, and managed as part of resource management to enable project execution.
Example, best practice, and further information
In a construction project, typical resources include construction workers, engineers, required machinery (such as cranes or excavators), and building materials (such as concrete or steel). A best practice is the careful planning, allocation, and efficient use of all required resources. This aligns with the principles of resource management according to the PMBOK Guide and with capacity planning in agile methods, aiming to maximize productivity, avoid bottlenecks, and minimize waste.