Our Resource Manager / Resources structure is such that we have multiple Resource Managers (each with Resources assigned to them) who are assigned to a next level Resource Manager

 1.  Can the second level Resource Manager approve himself to be assigned as a result of a resource type request or can that resource manager only be assigned by the next level manager?  If it's possible, how does a resource manager assign himself?

 2.  What is the best practice for getting resource type requests approved when the resource manager is out on vacation or sick?  Can the next level manager make these assignments?  What needs to be set up to allow this to happen?

Mandy,

I have tried resource management many ways and the most successful way, and the way I advise, is to have one RM login with all resources reporting to this generic resource manager.  Any resource assignment is accomplished using this login.  The advantages of this method is you can see all resources and fix any issue across the total enterprise.  You can also work together in case of any planned or unplanned absences.   

Bear in mind that that there may be performance implications with managing all enterprise resources with a single Resource Manager.  If you're talking about 50-100 resources, this approach shouldn't be a problem, but if you're talking hundreds, there will be a notable degredation of performance.

There are currently Greenhouse ideas regarding delegation of authority and hierarchical management of resources.  Please take a moment to vote for either (or both) of these ideas and add your comments!