Traditional PM Mindset (PMBOK)

Question 1

Always follow a plan and never allow changes to the plan without what?

Answer 1

An approved Change Request

Question 2

What must the PM do before taking any actions?

Answer 2

Come up with a strategy and create a plan

Question 3

Who must the PM consult with before making any decisions?

Answer 3

The project team

Question 4

As the PM, what should your decisions benefit first?

Answer 4

The objectives of the project
* For example, if there are conflicting methods on how to complete a particular task, then choose the method that will deliver the most value to the project outcome

Question 5

Which kinds of tools are most beneficial on a project?

Answer 5

• Tools that are inclusive
• Low tech, high touch

Question 6

What else should be taken into account when assessing a change in scope?

Answer 6

How the change will impact all other parts of the project (schedule, cost, quality, etc.)

Question 7

Whenever possible, how should projects be estimated?

Answer 7

• Using a bottom-up approach (not top-down)
• This will be more work, but will lead to more accurate estimates

Question 8

What is a PM’s primary job on a project?

Answer 8

• To be an integrator of the many different components within a project
• Never concentrate time and efforts on one particular portion while ignoring others

Question 9

What must you update throughout the entire project, as knowledge is gained?

Answer 9

The Lessons Learned Register, so it can be transferred to future projects in the organization

Question 10

What must always be done before fully closing a project?

Answer 10

1. Ensure all bills are paid off
2. Release all resources

Question 11

Who are the best stakeholders to break down work and determine when particular activities should happen?

Answer 11

The project team

Question 12

Who are the best stakeholders to check a deliverable for scope conformance and quality requirements?

Answer 12

The customers, since they are the ones that will actually use the product

Question 13

What must a PM do before resolving a conflict between team members?

Answer 13

Understand the source of the conflict

Question 14

Before sending out communication to stakeholders, what must a PM first analyze?

Answer 14

The stakeholders’ needs, what they’re looking for, how often, who will deliver the communication, and by what method

Question 15

Where should all identified risks and risk responses be documented?

Answer 15

The Risk Register

Question 16

What criteria should be used for selecting a contract?

Answer 16

It should be mutually beneficial to both the buyer and seller (as well as the overall objectives of the project)