The Definitive Guide to Project Management: The fast track to getting the job done on time and on budget (2nd Edition)

Projects get done by people, not by tools or techniques or technology. People management, also known as human resources (HR) management, is therefore vital. One of the key differences between professional organizations and small, growth-constrained ones is that the professional organizations select and appoint people according to skills and ability. However, there is a tension between the rationalist approach to HR management, which tries to match the skills and abilities needed to those available in employees, and the emotional side of management. The tools and techniques in project HR management will help you manage this tension.

There are four processes within this knowledge area, starting with planning, in which you plan what people will be needed and how you will develop them as a team and individuals in accordance with the needs of the project and the organization. The other processes are to acquire the project team, develop it and then manage it.