Module 4.3: Maximising your resources
Maximising your resources
In this module, you’ll learn how to manage resources effectively. This will allow you to make clear decisions, use resources wisely, and stay on top of your budget.
This module will explore:
Setting up clear roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes
Identifying and allocate the people, materials, and tools you need
- Planning, tracking, and adjusting your budget to stay on course
Learning outcome:
By the end of this module, you’ll have the skills and confidence to organise resources effectively, helping your project stay on track and achieve its goals.
Introduction video
Mapping your resources
When we are talking about resources, we are thinking about more than money; many successful projects thrive on support from their communities.
When thinking through your resources:
- Think about the people in your network
- Consider spaces and equipment
- Don’t forget that Knowledge and skills are valuable assets
Remember that we want to take an asset-based approach and consider the resources already available to you. Before looking for funding, ask: What do we already have? What can we access through our networks? You may be surprised about what’s already within reach!
Build on the strengths you’ve already identified in Module 2 – Community-led Placemaking by mapping what resources you have, and what you might still need to make your project happen.
Budgeting
Every successful project starts with resources and a strong team—but even with the best people and support, you need a financial plan to keep things on track. That’s where budgeting comes in.
Budgeting isn’t just about managing the grant you’ve received—it’s about ensuring your project can continue to grow and thrive. A well-planned budget helps you stay financially responsible, track your resources, and make smart decisions that keep your project sustainable over time.
Think of it like this:
- First, you identify what’s already available – You’ve already thought about your people, skills, materials and in-kind contributions (Maximising Your Resources & Managing Your Team)
- Next, you figure out what’s missing and plan your budget accordingly (Project Budgeting: Planning for Financial Success)
- Then, you secure additional support and funding to fill the gaps and expand your impact (Securing More Support & Funding)
By taking this approach, you’re not just managing money—you’re creating a sustainable project that doesn’t rely on funding alone. A budget isn’t just a document—it’s a tool that helps your project thrive.
Key budgeting tips:
- Plan early to stay on track - A clear budget helps avoid financial surprises
- Be strategic and set clear budgets - Know where money is needed the most
- Track expenses & in-kind support - Recognise the value of donated resources
- Review regularly & adjust as needed - A budget should be flexible, not fixed
- Stick to the plan but expect the unexpected! - Build in contingencies for surprises
By budgeting around your existing assets, you can reduce unnecessary costs and make better financial decisions. Remember, funding isn’t the complete answer to success, it’s one piece of a bigger picture!
Use this simple tool to help estimate costs, track funding, and plan for additional resources if needed.