A system and method for interactively utilizing a user interface to manage device resources comprises at least one resource characterization that includes resource requirements for executing a requested process. An allocation manager may then compare the resource requirements for the requested process to the currently-available device resources. The allocation manager may then authorize or deny the requested process depending upon whether the currently-available resources are sufficient to adequately service the resource requirements of the requested process. An interface manager may provide relevant information from sources such as the resource characterization and the allocation manager to a user interface to thereby allow a system user to interactively manage device resources.