Project management activities will not even exist without using appropriate resources. Without them, it will be difficult to impossible for project managers to commence the project. Different projects require different materials. A material is defined as an aggregate of things that are used by the organization or team in any types of undertakings, processes or activities.
Materials may include apparatus, equipment, tools, gears, machinery and other physical resources that are necessary for completing the different processes in project management. There is a wide range of materials used to complete different tasks and processes. Examples of materials used in project management include computer hardware and software for processes that require computing. Construction equipment and tools are also other examples necessary for completing construction jobs. The thing is that materials are tangible tools used by everyone in the project team that is necessary for completing the project.
Acquisition of a particular material needed for a specific process requires the project manager to follow the procurement process. It is also important for the project manager to also keep an inventory of the materials that they have for the project.
This term is defined in the 5th edition of the PMBOK.