HKSM

A section of the project management plan that explains how people, equipment, and materials will be obtained, assigned, tracked, and governed throughout the project.

Key Points

• Defines how to secure, assign, utilize, and release both team and physical resources.
• Clarifies roles, responsibilities, reporting lines, and resource calendars (availability and constraints).
• Specifies metrics, control thresholds, and escalation paths for resource issues and performance.
• Aligns resource decisions with schedule, cost, procurement, and risk plans (e.g., leveling and smoothing rules).

Example

On a software project, the plan lists needed skill sets, when each role is required, the process for contracting surge testers, a RACI for code reviews, a resource calendar showing holidays, and control rules such as a 80% utilization target and an escalation path if a database admin is unavailable.

PMP Example Question

During execution, a critical specialist becomes unavailable. Which document should the project manager consult first to determine how to obtain a replacement and reassign work?

1. Resource Management Plan
2. Team Charter
3. Risk Register
4. Schedule Baseline

Correct Answer: A — Resource Management Plan

Explanation: It describes how resources are obtained, assigned, tracked, and controlled, including escalation paths and replacement procedures.