Process: Control Resources
Process Group: Monitoring and Controlling
Knowledge Area: Project Resource Management
Purpose
The Control Resources process involves ensuring that physical resources assigned and allocated to the project are available as planned, and monitoring their use to detect and correct any deviations. This process focuses specifically on physical resource availability and performance, not team performance.
Inputs
- Project Management Plan – Especially the resource management plan and resource requirements.
- Project Documents – Includes issue log, physical resource assignments, project schedule, and risk register.
- Work Performance Data – Tracks actual usage, availability, and condition of resources.
- Agreements – Contracts that specify delivery terms and obligations for external resources.
- Organizational Process Assets (OPAs) – Policies for managing and reporting on physical resources.
Tools and Techniques
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Data Analysis
- Alternatives analysis
- Cost-benefit analysis
- Performance reviews
- Trend analysis
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Problem Solving – Identifying and resolving resource shortages, overuse, or conflicts.
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Interpersonal and Team Skills – Negotiation and influencing to resolve resource-related issues.
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Project Management Information System (PMIS) – Software to monitor, report, and track resource use.
Outputs
- Work Performance Information – Processed data showing how resource usage aligns with the plan.
- Change Requests – Triggered if resource constraints require updates to schedule, scope, or cost.
- Project Management Plan Updates – Adjustments to the resource management plan or cost baseline.
- Project Document Updates – Revisions to the issue log, resource assignments, and risk register.
Role in the Process Group and Knowledge Area
- Within the Monitoring and Controlling Process Group, Control Resources ensures efficient and effective use of physical assets throughout execution.
- As part of Project Resource Management, it safeguards project outcomes by detecting and responding to resource-related risks and inefficiencies.
Why It Matters
- Avoids Waste and Shortages – Ensures resources are used efficiently and are available when needed.
- Maintains Schedule and Cost Performance – Prevents delays or overruns due to poor resource control.
- Improves Decision-Making – Enables proactive responses based on real-time resource data.
- Supports Compliance – Verifies that usage aligns with agreements, plans, and policies.