How to Prepare for Your First Resource Management Project

Starting your first resource management project can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can set yourself up for success. Here's a straightforward guide to help you get started.

1. Assemble the Right Team

Your project’s success hinges on the people involved. Gather team members who:

• Represent different areas of your organization to provide a complete understanding of how resources are used.
• Are able to lead and guide the project effectively. This leader will need dedicated time and support from the organization to steer the project to completion.
• Offer expertise—whether internal or external. If your team doesn’t have the required knowledge, consider working with an external vendor who specializes in bringing your project through the implementation.

2. Assess Your Resources and Processes

Before diving in, take stock of what you have.

• Asset Inventory: Identify your current resources. What are they? Where are they? Who manages them?
• Workflows: Document how resources are currently used, scheduled, and maintained.
• Rules: Define access restrictions, usage rates, and any guidelines that apply.

Understanding these basics will reveal gaps, inefficiencies, or opportunities for improvement.

3. Define Your Goals and User Experience

Ask yourself:

• How do you want users to interact with the resources? Should they be able to book resources themselves?
• What information do you want to track? Think about what data you’re currently collecting and whether it meets your needs.
• Are there any wish-list features or improvements you’d like to see?

This is also a great time to consider new technologies or processes—don’t feel tied to “the way we’ve always done it.”

4. Plan Your Timeline and Budget

A realistic timeline and budget are critical.

• Identify any deadlines, like regulatory requirements or business milestones.
• Build in buffer time for unexpected delays.
• Determine your budget and timelines and explore whether external help fits within them.

5. Embrace Change Management

Change is easier when people feel involved.

• Bring in representatives from different departments, and different parts of the workflow, to discuss workflows and gather feedback.
• Give your team opportunities to contribute ideas, which helps build buy-in and reduce resistance.

6. Know If You’re Ready

Your organization is ready to start a resource management project when:

• Processes are already somewhat established—ideally documented.
• Expectations for time, budget, and personnel are realistic.
• You have a champion within the organization who can articulate why this project matters and rally support for it.

By following these steps, you’ll have a clear plan for your first resource management project. Preparation is key, so take the time to lay a solid foundation before you dive in. 

If you would like more information on getting started, or a demo of our product, reach out to us today!