The Resource Cost Model (RCM) is a resource management system that combines the technical advantages of sophisticated computer simulation software with the practical benefits of group decision making to provide detailed information about educational program costs. The first section of this document introduces the conceptual framework underlying the development and use of the RCM and includes illustrations of the kinds of information produced by the program: summary cost data; total and average costs of educational services; resource costs and quantities by program, service, and object; and budget reports. The second section presents a classification scheme for describing programs and services and illustrates how this classification scheme can be used to develop descriptions, labels, names, and codes for programs and services and for payroll schedules and cost analysis. The final section provides instructions on how to install and run the RCM computer simulation. Appended are file formats, samples, and worksheets. (TE)