Difference Between Project Manager and Resource Manager

In this post we will know some differences between Project Manager and Resource Manager.Projects involve a series of tasks that need to be coordinated to be completed successfully in the right sequence to avoid conflicts. A project manager is responsible for that coordination. But no task can be completed without appropriate resources. The project manager needs to work with a resource manager to align the right resources to the right tasks. A manager has more responsibilities than a simple employee irrespective of the size of the company and, therefore, is also higher paid than ordinary employees. A manager of a department is in general responsible for the performance of the employees under him and is answerable to the top management for the output from his department.

Throughout the project’s life, the project manager keeps the project moving forward, focusing on task completion and keeping the project on scope, on budget and on time.

Project Manager also manages how the project’s results will bring about change in the workplace. Every milestone that is reached must be assessed for positive and negative impacts to the project itself and the overall work environment. The project manager measures and monitors these impacts, and reports them to project sponsors and team members.

Resource Manager:

Resource managers are responsible for assigning the right people to the right projects at the right time. They manage employees currently in the workplace and determine hiring needs based on each project’s requirements. While the project manager focuses on getting tasks done, the resource manager coordinates capabilities and workload.

Collaborating with the resource manager, the project manager assigns people to tasks. Then, while the project manager monitors activities, the resource manager monitors capabilities. If skill sets fall short of task needs, the resource manager arranges for coaching, training or resource adjustments. Also, while the project manager assesses the impact of change on the work environment, the resource manager assesses the training needs of employees who will be affected by the project’s results.