A Resource Breakdown Structure is a hierarchical representation of resources by category and type.
It provides a structured view of all resources required for the project, enabling clear planning, assignment, tracking, and control across labor, materials, equipment, and other categories.
Key Characteristics
- Hierarchical Format – Groups resources from general to specific
- Covers All Resource Types – Includes human, material, equipment, and financial resources
- Improves Planning Accuracy – Helps define what is needed and when
- Supports Allocation and Tracking – Links resources to activities and responsibilities
Example Scenarios
- Defining all labor types needed for project execution
- Breaking down materials by use, quantity, and sourcing
- Mapping out required tools and specialized equipment
Example Resource Management Breakdown Structure
flowchart TD A[Resources] A1[Human Resources] A2[Material Resources] A3[Equipment Resources] A4[Financial Resources] A --> A1 A --> A2 A --> A3 A --> A4 A1a[Project Manager] A1b[Developers] A1c[Testers] A1d[Business Analysts] A1 --> A1a A1 --> A1b A1 --> A1c A1 --> A1d A2a[Concrete] A2b[Steel] A2c[Network Cables] A2 --> A2a A2 --> A2b A2 --> A2c A3a[Servers] A3b[Workstations] A3c[Heavy Machinery] A3 --> A3a A3 --> A3b A3 --> A3c A4a[Contingency Funds] A4b[Operational Budget] A4c[Vendor Payments] A4 --> A4a A4 --> A4b A4 --> A4c
Role in Resource Management
- Enables Effective Allocation – Supports matching resources to project needs
- Improves Cost Estimation – Assists in developing accurate resource-based budgets
- Supports Responsibility Assignment – Informs creation of RACI and other matrices
- Feeds Into Scheduling – Provides input for resource leveling and optimization
See also: Organizational Breakdown Structure, Risk Breakdown Structure, Work Breakdown Structure, Resource Management Plan, Responsibility Assignment Matrix.