PMP TEST 1 Flashcards
1The Project Manager shifts to an agile approach for a project with an aggressive go-to-market timeline. The Project Manager needs to revise the stakeholder plan so that it follows agile principles. What should the Project Manager do to meet this need?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Design a digital communication system that allows for virtual submission, logging, reviewing, and escalation of issues
Remove unnecessary layers of management to promote direct communication between the project team and stakeholders
Modify templates to include product backlog progression and the burndown rate and encourage use of standups
Increase the number of formal training workshops to cover all relevant issues for all stakeholders, including the project sponsor and client
Correct Option:C
EXPLANATION
Servant leadership requires shared responsibility. Changing documentation and processes across the team toward agile methodologies ensures that all team members are kept up to date on expectations, roles, and responsibilities.
Project team members are concerned that a new resource does not seem suitable for an assigned task. How should the project manager respond to this concern?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Contact senior management to discuss the possibility of reassigning the new resource to a different project.
Schedule time to chat with the new resource to assess their skills and understand their strength level.
Ask the team members to document task-related deficiencies displayed by the resource.
Contact the project sponsor to highlight these concerns and decide on an appropriate response.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
A project manager should not take action by just listening to other members feedback. He should talk to the new member to find out about his strength and make some evaluation later. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018) PMI, 9. Project Resource Management / 9.4 Develop team, p338 | The Agile Practice Guide, 2.2 The Agile Manifesto and Mindset , p8
3A Project Manager develops a project management plan and schedule based on an agreed-upon project life cycle of 16 months. Later, due to changing business requirements, the Project Manager receives a request for completion within 9 months. How should the Project Manager respond to this proposed change in timeline?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Work with key stakeholders to identify project requirements that could be reduced
Immediately ask project team members to increase the pace of each task within the project
Modify the original project schedule so that revised deadlines can be met
Meet individually with project team members to discuss how aspects of the project can be completed more quickly than planned
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
To execute the project quickly, the project team should discuss on the whole scope together and find out the way to complete tasks at individual level within short time. By the discussion, many tasks could be by-passed from the base tasks and new tasks can be identified, which might help the project to reduce the total time frame of the project. This is the agile mindset of the Project Manager by which more value can be delivered in a shorter period of time.
4During an agile iteration, Task 1 cannot be completed on time due to unexpected challenges. Another team within the project is depending on timely completion of Task 1 in order to fulfill their part of the project. How should the Project Manager resolve this issue?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Meet with both teams separately and ask them to figure out a way to meet the required deadlines and complete the project on time
Meet with the product owner to reprioritize the iteration backlog so that it does not impact other teams or obligations
Increase the number of team members for the project team and increase the iteration length ensuring that the work will be completed according to schedule
Let team members know you want them to do their best under difficult circumstances, and make sure to note the iteration’s challenges in lessons learned
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
The hybrid approach might also involve evaluating iteration backlog items’ priorities to resolve time constraints.
5The project manager schedules an iteration review and learns that a few key stakeholders do not approve of how a feature has been developed. What should the project manager do first in order to address this issue?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Invite project team members to a brainstorming session to identify an appropriate response.
Address the issue only after evaluating why these stakeholders are concerned.
Determine the impact of the conflict by listing the pros and cons of the situation.
Ask the project sponsor to act as a neutral party in negotiation with those stakeholders who are dissatisfied.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
One of the required abilities of Project Managers is to identify when the conflict escalates. If it happens, the Project Manager should help to facilitate a satisfactory solution, addressing conflict early, in private and using a direct and collaborative approach. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 9. Project Resource Management / 9.5.2 Manage Team: Tools and Techniques, p348
6While reviewing the issues log, the Project Manager notices that tasks assigned to two team members are quite a bit behind schedule. What should be done?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Notify the responsible team members of the need to complete the overdue tasks quickly in order to avoid introducing extra project risks.
Tell the team members who are behind schedule that they should explain why tasks were delayed and how they will get back on schedule.
Document the issue, escalate to the project sponsor, and ask for how they would like it resolved.
Work with the relevant team members to review the delayed tasks and decide on strategies for resolution.
Correct Option:D
EXPLANATION
The Project Manager needs to be proactive and review the activities with the team and to identify resolution strategies.
7A Project Manager realizes that sponsor expectations are not being met, specifically regarding project deliverables. To address this issue, what action should the Project Manager take?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Update the risk register
Develop a stakeholder engagement plan
Develop a communications management plan
Create a work breakdown structure (WBS)
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The risk register may have existing entries about the potential for the sponsors’ expectations not being met that need updating. If there were no existing entries, then there will be new risks associated with any plan of action.
8During a meeting, a Project Manager learns that a business result needs to be delivered in four weeks, although the original plan was sixteen weeks. The Project Manager also hears that there is no available technical resource who might be able to join the team. The Project Manager knows the technical resource manager because they worked together on a previous project. What is the first thing the Project Manager should do?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Since time is short, hire an outside party to meet the need for a technical resource
Check with the technical resource manager to see if there is an available technical resource
Immediately escalate the issue to decision-makers in the organization
Notify the project sponsor about the lack of a technical resource
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
As per the Agile manifesto one should value individuals and interactions over processes and tools. Thus, it is best to meet with the technical resource manager to understand the real situation rather than informing sponsor first which might be a false alarm.
9A team decides that an agile approach fits the needs of the next phase in their project. Unfortunately, there are team members who have not had the appropriate agile training. How should the project manager respond to the lack of agile training?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Identify and implement the most cost-effective agile training for the team members.
Create virtual training sessions for key team members, covering the main agile topics.
Ensure the project’s contingency reserve can cover agile training for all team members.
Include agile training for these team members in a change request.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
If project team members training results in added skills that could be useful for future phases or future projects, schedule training lessons and related costs could be evaluated to be included in resource management plan and cost management plan. PMBOK® Guide Sixth Edition (2018) 9. Project resource Management / 9.4.2.6 Training, p342 | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 4. Implementing Agile: Creating An Agile Environment / 4.2.1 Servant Leader Responsibilities, 37
10A Project Manager believes that a delay in developing a prototype was due to a lack of knowledge in a specific skill that was needed by the cross-functional team. How could the Project Manager prevent this situation in future projects?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Offer more specialized training throughout the project to the team
Identify required strengths and organize the team based on those strengths
Meet with the project sponsor and team members to assign training for specific skills
Empower team members to problem solve in situations where skills may be lacking
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
Developing the team is an important part of servant leadership.
11A new Project Manager joins the projects daily standups only to find that the project team spends too much time discussing ways to deal with obstructions in the project. Because of these discussions, standups often last well over two hours. What process should be used to deal with this issue?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Ask team members to invite their managers to standup sessions in order to find solutions more quickly
Explain to team members that long discussions take time away from actual work on the project
Insert a new team member who will manage obstacles and schedule additional meetings to discuss possible solutions
Tell the team members that they are required to shorten the standup meetings and improve on finding solutions
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
Shared responsibility is an important part of agile teams. The team charter should provide an outline of what meetings are for what purposes.
12A customer is not satisfied with the delivered product, saying that it was not what they expected. The project manager is surprised, because the agile development team delivered the product several iterations early. What is one way that the project manager could have avoided this result?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Required team sign off for each of the constant changes to the requirements
Set aside more resources for product testing after changes are made
Made sure that the customer was aware of the value of demos
Ensured that the team fully participated in developing the project scope
Correct Option:C
EXPLANATION
The customer was not engaged enough in the project. The iteration review is the best mechanism for the team to demonstrate working software and for the customer to give feedback to ensure that their expectations are met. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 13. Project Stakeholder Management / 13.3 Manage Stakeholder Engagement,524 | The Agile Practice Guide (No Date), 5 Implementing Agile: Delivering in and Agile Environment / 5.2.5 Demonstrations/Reviews, 55
13A Project Manager’s team has been efficiently delivering expected results in an environment where budget and scope are fixed. Now, there is an increased demand for new skills due to changes in the market. What can the Project Manager do to meet this new demand?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Meet the new demand by adding new resources with the required skills
Hire a third-party vendor who can provide resources with the needed skills
Change the distribution of partially-dedicated resources with the needed skills
Meet the new demand by upgrading the existing team members’ skills
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
Developing the team is very important. However, in a situation where time is limited, the most efficient option is expanding the team to included skilled resources.
14A project team is small and the team members have known each other for a long time. The team’s project is in the execution phase. Recently, a team member told the new project manager that another team member has been complaining about how the project is being managed. How should this new project manager respond?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Preview the current stakeholder engagement plan for the way to resolve the difficulty.
Schedule a mandatory team meeting which will lead to the creation of a new social contract.
Notify team members that they should submit anonymous recommendations for a new social contract.
Send a survey to team members, requesting suggestions for dealing with the dissatisfaction.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
A) No - While this may help in addressing the situation, it will not help to rectify any existing damage done to the team as a result of the situation. B) Yes - This is the best solution. It encourages every team member to particulate and results in a clear set of guidelines for the team. C) No - This is not the best answer. While this will create a set of guidelines, they may not be the best ones for the team. D) No - This is not the best solution as it does not encourage team cohesion and self leadership. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 9. Project Resource Management / 9.1.3.2 Team Charter, 319 | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 5. Implementing Agile: Delivering In AN Agile Environment / 5.1 Charter The Project And The Team p50
15During a highly-regulated project, the project sponsor and a high-level executive have asked for changes that appear to disregard legal requirements. What should be the first step in the project manager’s response?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Immediately schedule a meeting with the stakeholders to review the situation.
Send the change control board (CCB) a change request.
Check with the organization’s relevant legal practitioner for guidance.
Review the organization’s lessons learned database for precedents and direction.
Correct Option:C
EXPLANATION
A) No - This is not the best response as you may not fully understand the situation. B) No - This is necessary but is not the first step. C) Yes - This is the best FIRST step before going to the CCB because this is a highly regulated industry. D) No - While this may provide guidance, this is not ultimately your decision to decide. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), Part 2 The Standard for Project Management / 1.3 Linking Organizational Governance and Project Governance PMI, p545 | Project Managers Portable Handbook, 3rd Ed (2010) Section 6. Project Initiation and Execution / 6.3 Legal Considerations and Execution
16A project manager has multiple projects. One project has new team members and is in its early stages. Unfortunately, the project manager will be very busy executing other projects over the next few weeks. How can the project manager develop the new project team over the next few weeks?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Help the team create a social contract that will encourage team cohesion.
Suggest that the team engage in multiple team-building events to normalize the team.
Keep the team informed by sending short daily project status updates.
Engage in face-to-face personal conversations with each team member to build relationships.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
A) Yes - This will allow the team to normalize themselves and be self-servicing when you are unavailable. B) No - This may be productive, but it is a one-time activity and does not encourage self-servicing when you are unavailable. C) No - This does not encourage the team to get to know each other and become self-servicing. D) No - While this may result in deeper relationships, there is not enough time for this and it does not encourage the team to get to know each other. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), Part 2 The Standard for Project Management / 1.5 The Project Lifecycle, pp 547-548
17A Project Manager needs to ensure that the team delivers business value within the required timelines. The manager recently learned that key stakeholders are worried that the current release plan will not meet urgent business needs. What can the Project Manager do to effectively respond to the stakeholder concerns?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Renegotiate scope with the project sponsor after examining the work breakdown structure (WBS)
In consultation with the stakeholders and team members, identify the minimum viable product needed for launch
Determine the schedule performance index (SPI) and escalate the schedule risk to the project sponsor
Monitor progress using a burndown chart after modifying the schedule baseline to meet stakeholder requirements
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
Assuming that the work can be completed may create new issues. It is best to work with the project sponsor and see if there is any scope that can be reduced to meet a more realistic timeline.
18A key stakeholder voices a concern during the planning stage about whether the available resources are sufficient to meet the objectives of the project. The Project Manager believes that the stakeholder is right. How should the Project Manager handle this stakeholder’s concern?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Review the bounds of the negotiations for agreement
Determine the project’s ultimate objectives after carefully evaluating project priorities
Engage in agreement negotiations for better resources
Ensure that the impact of the unavailability of required resources is fully documented
Correct Option:D
EXPLANATION
Fully documenting the impact of situation ensures that all stakeholders are aware of any risks, issues, quality concerns, etc.
19A project manager notices that one team member seems increasingly unhappy during team meetings. The team member is not making progress on a key work package, and this lack of progress is now impacting the critical path. The team member feels that they are not in the correct role within the project team. What should the project manager do?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Reassure the team member about their abilities by reminding them that they were chosen for a reason.
Meet with the team member to discuss where they can contribute, based on their strengths.
Enroll the team member in targeted training to acquire the needed skills for their assigned role.
Schedule weekly touchpoints with the team member to discuss barriers that may impact their work.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
A) No - This is positive reinforcement, but it may be unwarranted. B) Yes - This is the best response. The individual may truly be right. As a Servant Leader, you can help them find the correct role. C) No - This is helpful, but it doesn’t address the core of their concern. D) No - This creates a false sense of momentum that doesn’t address the core of their concern. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), Part 2 The Standard for Project Management 1. Introduction 1.7 Role of the Project Manager, p552 | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 4. Implementing Agile: Creating An Agile Environment / 4.2.1 Servant Leader Responsibilities 34
20A project owner repeatedly complains, saying that a function developed by the development team does not seem to align with the original design. What will help to solve this issue?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Ask the product owner to sit in on the next iteration review meeting to learn more about the development status for the product.
Ask the quality assurance team to identify any mismatches in functionality compared to the initial design.
Ask the development team to rewrite the function so that it matches with the project scope.
Schedule time during the next retrospective session to discuss all corrective actions and ask the project owner to participate in the session.
Correct Option:D
EXPLANATION
Retrospective can discuss the product release status, whether the team reaches any other milestone. It can be used by project manage to survey all necessary parties to reach consensus and build understanding. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 8 Project Quality Management / 8.3.2.6 Meetings, p305 | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 5. Implementing Agile: Delivering In An Agile Environment / 5.2.1 Retrospectives, pp 50-51
21A customer indicates that they would like to add functionality. Although this request is made during the execution phase of the project, the project manager finds that the cost for the addition would be small. The additional functionality, if successful, would increase the opportunity for profit. What should the project manager do next?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Agree that the functionality would offer a great opportunity, but the proposed addition is out of scope.
Schedule a meeting with the company’s management team, and present the customer’s request for additional functionality as a good opportunity.
Move forward, using the project’s management reserve to add the requested functionality.
Identify an already-developed feature that could be combined with the new functionality and use the combination to meet the customer’s request.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
By building a small increment and then testing and reviewing it, the team can add value in terms of new functionalities or additional awarded projects. Important factor for a successful implementation and value capture is the response time of the team. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 1. Introduction / 1.2.4.1 Project and Development Life Cycles, p19
22A customer requests a change in the technical approach for a product currently in development. The project manager learns about this request during a reoccurring project review. What should the project manager do in response to the customer’s request?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Work with team members to immediately implement the new approach.
Have the team decide on the appropriate approach, giving them authority to implement their decision and validating their decision in talks with stakeholders.
Discuss the pros and cons of the proposed approach with stakeholders, then select the approach that is best for the team and notify team members.
In order to obtain sponsor buy-in, have the team to benchmark the approach.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
As a technical issue the project management should address the team to assess and select the best options to solve, empower then and improving engagement. The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 2 An Introduction To Agile / Figure 2-2 The Twelve Principles Behind the Agile Manifesto, p9 | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 4 Implementing Agile: Creating An Agile Environment / 4.2 Servant Leadership Empowers The Team, p33
23A Project Manager realizes during the third iteration of product development that the template used for the project management plan is not showing updates. Which action should the project manager take?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Assign one team member to update the project management plan template and document any risk
Rank the need to update the template according to the business value for the upcoming iterations
Avoid adding to team distraction by fixing the issue independently
Document the issue as a new project risk and propose a solution
Correct Option:D
EXPLANATION
This issue may or may not also be a risk to future iterations. Documenting it as a new project risk also ensures that there is a proper risk analysis performed to analyze what could happen in different scenarios.
24During a challenging shareholder meeting, the customer indicates that they will reject an iteration’s deliverable. What should the project manager do?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Send a request to the project sponsor, asking them to update the project charter then reassign the responsibilities and authorities.
Meet with the project team to add new and improved features to replace the features that were rejected.
Work with stakeholders to create a shared approach that will address the issues of concern.
File a change request with the change control board (CCB) in order to add budget to the baseline.
Correct Option:C
EXPLANATION
Before initiate any action the project manager should work with the team to identify the root cause of the problem and build an approach to conduct the project for the next iterations. As a hybrid approach a retrospective ceremonial can be a good option to solve this situation. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), Part 2 The Standard for Project Management / 5. Monitoring and Controlling Process Group / 5.1 Monitoring and Controlling Project Work, p 615
25During work on a government project, stakeholders pressure the project manager to submit to their preferred actions. While the project manager must coordinate and plan with multiple stakeholders, the project manager must also deal with complex relations and frequently changing scenarios. What should the project manager consider doing? (Choose two.)
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER(S)
Use the Prioritization method of categorization.
Use the Salience model of categorization.
Use the Transformation model of categorization.
Use the Transaction model of categorization.
Correct Option:A, B
EXPLANATION
Both salience model and prioritization needs to be used to categorize for government contracts especially when the scenario is for frequently changing, complex relationships with multiple representatives involved. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 13. Project Stakeholder Management / 13.1.2.4 Data Representation, p513
26A project manager is working on a small project that is critical for a larger program milestone. A new resource has been assigned to replace a key resource who had to leave the project. Unfortunately, an outside stakeholder claims that the person who assigned the new resource sent their weakest team member. How should the project manager approach this rumor?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Assess the new resources ability to perform the necessary work by testing their communication skills with the current project team.
Evaluate the skills of the new resource to see how the resource can provide value to the project.
File a request with the project management office (PMO) manager in order to obtain a better resource.
Address the rumor with the new resources functional manager to mitigate any conflict within the project team.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
A) No - This is not the best use of time, and unfairly makes presumptions on the candidate. B) Yes - This is the best answer. Without seeing performance first-hand, there is no available proof to the hearsay. C) No - This assumes that hearsay is fact, which may create a strained relationship between the Project Manager and functional manager. D) No - While this may give solace to the Project Manager, this is inappropriate and unwarranted. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018) 9. Project Resource Management / 9.3.2.1 Decision Making, p332
27A Project Manager needs to ensure that all data security requirements are covered during a data warehouse development projects execution phase. Each of the databases created during different project phases will have a specific data security policy to comply with governmental data security laws. How should the Project Manager plan to meet these requirements?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Plan a database development specification and regularly check this to ensure the developer aligns with the specification
Arrange for review of the data security status on a quarterly basis and recommend remedial steps if noncompliance is found
Tell the database developer to submit documentation of data security items and the steps they take to correct items that do not meet specifications
Add a quality assurance specialist resource to the project team who will be responsible for monitoring the data security quality of the project
Correct Option:C
EXPLANATION
Clearly documenting how key requirements have been met is a great way to ensure quality and identify any gaps that need to be addressed
28Several successor activities are behind schedule because a project team member has not been at work for the past week. This impacts the critical path. How should the project manager respond to this problem?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Obtain a new resource to complete the needed tasks, resulting in less impact on the critical path.
Discuss the situation with the team member, and work with them to identify a practical solution.
Remind the team member that they needed to complete the work package in the agreed-upon timeframe.
Ask the functional manager for assistance communicating with the absent team member.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
A) No - This is premature and will most likely take longer than attempting to rectify the situation. B) Yes - A Project Manager also has the ability to be a coach. Servant Leadership encourages listening and serving, and therefore it may be possible to compromise with the team member. C) No - This does not address the situation and is in direct contradiction to the coaching role of a Project Manager. D) No - This does not address the situation directly and offsets blame to a third party. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 10. Project Communication Management / 10.2 Manage Communication / 10.2.2.6 Interpersonal and Team Skills, p386 | PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 9. Project Resource Management / 9.5.2.1 Interpersonal and Team Skills / Conflict Management, p348 | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 4 Implementing Agile: Creating an Agile Environment / 4.2.1 Servant Leader Responsibilities, p34
29A company is struggling to define the scope of a new project that has multiple phases with a high level of dependency between the phases. How should the project manager approach this challenge?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Contract with a third-party company that specializes in helping businesses define scope of work on large projects.
Work with project stakeholders to recommend an iterative approach that will then help to define the project’s scope.
Construct a project management plan that provides extra time within the schedule, then seek to revise the scope of work.
Suspend final delivery dates for the project in order to have time to revise the schedule once there is clarity on the scope of work.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
Although most of the distractors are not bad ideas for the project manager, the key is the first correct action the they must perform. Introducing adaptive steps in a heavily predictive environment is never easy and also, the stakeholders will be the ones heavily involved in the 3 weeks interaction phase. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 13. Project Stakeholder Management / 13.3 Manage Stakeholder Engagement, p524 | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 5. Implementing Agile: Delivering In An Agile Environment / 5.2.6 Planning for Iteration-Base Agile, p55
30After six iterations, significant variations have occurred to project scope and schedule. These are due to the customer’s technology regulations and security policies, which are regularly reviewed. The project manager wants to suggest a new approach to the next iteration to avoid possible delays. What should the project manager do first?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Rank the importance of each improvement item, then implement actions identified during the last retrospective.
Engage in a cost-benefit analysis that can help predict the profits that could be realized through the use of new technology for the next phase.
Research new technology trends and management tools that have been successful on similar projects.
Use a backlog refinement meeting and include the customer’s change requests in the discussion.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The retrospective is used to review lessons learned and suggest corrective actions for the next iterations. Essential Scrum: A Practical Guide to the Most Popular Agile Process (2012), Chapter 22. Sprint Retrospective / Overview | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 5. Implementing Agile: Delivering In An Agile Environment / 5.2.1. Retrospectives, pp 50-51
31All team members on a new project want to gain the customer’s trust by delivering value as quickly as possible. The project manager learns that one resource has worked with the sponsor on other projects. The resource seems to be using personal influence, working with a project sponsor to increase the project’s benefits realization. At which stage in the project should the project manager address this concern to optimize cost effectiveness?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
At the start of the team’s performing stage
Immediately after the first benefit realization
During the next retrospective ceremony
During the next resource performance review
Correct Option:C
EXPLANATION
The retrospective would be the event to address this concern. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 8. Project Quality Management / 8.3.2. Control Quality: Tools and Techniques / 8.3.2.6 Meetings, p305 | PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 13. Project Stakeholder Management / 13.4.2.6 Meetings, p535
32A project team learns that there is a new compliance requirement from an international entity that may impact the baseline business case for the project. They learn this right after project charter is completed and the project sponsor has signed. How should the project manager proceed?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Research the requirement and possible consequences, then give the sponsor a recommendation.
Address the requirement through the creation of a quality management plan.
Decline to address the issue, as the new requirement is not part of the project’s documented scope.
Ensure that the requirement is documented in the risk register, then ask for further guidance from all stakeholders.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The context of this scenario demands the Project Manager to influence the organization (sponsor) and recommend next steps after reviewing and understanding compliance requirements and consequences. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018),4. Project Integration Management / 4.1.1.3 Enterprise Environmental Factors p78
33A team misunderstood one product functionality documented in an earlier stage of the project. During the current iteration, the functionality has not yet been developed, but a business representative has mentioned the deficiency. How should the project manager proceed?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
The functionality was formally approved, so initiate the change management process.
Schedule a meeting to discuss and brainstorm the functionality with the project team and business representative.
Ensure that the issue is addressed by escalating it to the project sponsor, who should discuss it with the representative.
Continue with the current sprint, recognizing that the issue will be identified during the testing phase.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
As the functionality has not been built the project manager should facilitate building common understanding and empowering the team to evaluate the impact of a possible change, this way avoiding re-work. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 3. The Role of the Project Manager / 3.4.4 Leadership Skills | The Agile Practice Guide (2017) 3 Life Cycle Selection / 3.1.10 - Hybrid life cycles as Fit-For-Purpose, p29
Some agile approaches have recently been added to an infrastructure company’s predictive processes. The team is not completing the planned story points, and the they are becoming passive. The Project Manager is concerned and wants to improve productivity. What should the Project Manager do?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Provide team training so the team can do a better job of estimating story points
Speed up the project by reducing the backlog
Gain the needed time for story point completion by adding more iterations to the project
Use burndown charts to evaluate team performance
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
Training can be a great way to empower team members to grow their skills. This would also create consistency in story point estimation techniques.
35During one daily standup meeting, team members indicate that they are having to engage in rework because there seems to be too much up-front work. How should the Project Manager respond to this concern?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Try using a Kanban board for reviews
Request that team members explicitly implement time boxing
Request that the project owner maximizes the product value
Engage in a process to manage a reduction in the product backlog
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
Rework can often caused by trying to do too much in too little time. Timeboxing is a great technique to choose an appropriate window of time dedicated to a single focus.
36A Project Manager from a traditional project management organization is assigned to an ongoing project. Recently, the organization has started to use agile methodologies in its projects. The Project Manager hears that some team members feel like key subject matter expertise is missing and there is insufficient collaboration within the team. How should the Project Manager respond to these team members’ concerns?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Employ third-party specialists to fill the knowledge gap
Add additional resources via a request to the sponsor
Add cross-functional internal resources
Where possible, modify Gantt charts to Kanban boards
Correct Option:C
EXPLANATION
Agile methodologies require T” shaped team members. That is
37A contractor has sent an email request for urgent payment of their last installment on a project that is going through a long execution stage with multiple contractors. How should the project manager respond to this contractor’s request?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Negotiate payment terms through a meeting with procurement and the contractor.
Authorize the payment by notifying accounts payable and follow up to ensure it was made.
Act according to the agreed upon commitments in the procurement management plan.
Authorize payment only after reviewing forecast spend versus actual spend to see if the actual status allows it.
Correct Option:C
EXPLANATION
Even an inexperienced project manager should understand that terms and conditions should be agreed before engaging a contractor to actually do project work. The procurement plan holds all data re contracts and is the single source to guide payment activities. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 4, Project Integration Management / 4.7.1 Close Projects or Phase: Inputs, pp124-125 | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 6 Organizational Considerations For Project Agility / 6.3 Procurement and Contracts p77
38A key team member is unhappy with the overall approach documented in a project management plan. The member surprises the Project Manager with negative comments about the approach during a weekly status meeting during the execution phase of the project. How should the Project Manager address the team members concerns?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Continue with the meeting, and ensure that the concerns are added to the risk register after the meeting is finished.
Continue with the scheduled agenda items after reminding the team member of expected meeting etiquette. Then, solicit feedback about the etiquette expectations.
Remember that a project should not go forward when key team members are in disagreement, and use the meeting to discuss the members concerns.
Make a short comment to acknowledge the team members concerns, continue with the meeting, and meet with the member in private to discuss their concerns.
Correct Option:D
EXPLANATION
Conflict should be addressed in private, first, to better understand the concern being raised. Exploring the concern after the meeting gives the PM an opportunity to verify the concern and determine needed next steps without disrupting the meeting with all meeting attendees.
39A Project Manager for a construction firm meets with stakeholders. All stakeholders agree on a 20 month lifecycle for a project. After work has begun, the Project Manager learns that stakeholders would like project completion within no more than 16 months. What should be the first step in the Project Managers response?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Meet with key stakeholders to discuss ways to reduce some project requirements
Add team members to work more quickly just this one time in order to satisfy stakeholder requirements
Refuse to modify the time line, explaining that scope creep should be discouraged
Identify agreed-upon tasks in the original project and assign additional duties as needed to meet the new, shorter timeline
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
If it is possible to reduce the requirements for a project with the sponsor and key stakeholders, this is preferred over crashing, fast-tracking, change-control, and other methods which will most likely increase risk and create issues with a shortened time frame.
40During an iteration, a project team encounters problems that may cause a delay in task completion. Another team within the same project needs the task to be completed on time in order to meet their schedule. What can the project manager do to resolve this problem?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Insist that the project team work a bit harder to complete on time, in order to avoid delaying the work of other teams.
Work with the product owner to reprioritize the iteration backlog, so that it does not delay work by other teams.
Increase the iteration length, and add additional resources to the project team, so that they can meet the appropriate deadlines.
Ask team members to perform to the best of their abilities during the iteration, and engage in a retrospective after completion of the iteration.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
May cause a delay does not mean the task completion will be delayed, To improve probability of success, reprioritizing the backlog may improve the probability for success more than the other options. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 6. Project Schedule Management / 6.6 Control Schedule, pp 222-224 | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 5 Implementing Agile: Delivering In An Agile Environment / 5.2.3 Backlog Refinement, p52
41Certain key stakeholders are dissatisfied with how a key feature of a project has been developed. They express their dissatisfaction during an iteration review meeting. What should the project manager do first to resolve this issue?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Gather the project team for a brainstorming session and identify a solution.
Identify the reasons why there are issues with the feature, then address the issue.
Create a list of the pros and cons of the situation to define the impact of the conflict.
Add a neutral party, such as the project sponsor, to function as a negotiator with stakeholders.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
Identifying the source of conflict is a key initial step in conflict management. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 9. Project Resource management / 9.5.2 Manage Team Tools and Techniques, p348
42During a technical project, a well-liked project member is reassigned to a different project. The team has expressed disapproval regarding the reassignment. What action can help mitigate the team’s disapproval?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Notify the project sponsor regarding the teams disapproval and brainstorm a response
Employ coaching tools and techniques to increase team motivation
Add a resource with the same skills to replace the key team member
Notify the change control board (CCB) and discuss possible ways to resolve the issue
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
PM should know how to handle key personnel changes and keep the team motivated and productive.
43At a weekly project status meeting, a key team member expresses concerns about the overall approach documented within the project management plan. The Project Manager is surprised because the team is in the process of executing an important component of the project and the concern has not been raised before. What steps should the Project Manager take?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Update the risk register to document the concerns, then continue with the meetings scheduled agenda items.
Recognize that the concern must be fully discussed and resolved prior to continuing with the meetings agenda items.
Address the team with a generic reminder about meeting etiquette, then ask if the team wants to use the time to fully discuss the concerns raised during the meeting.
Immediately acknowledge the team members concern, continue with the scheduled agenda, then privately meet with the team member to fully understand the concerns expressed.
Correct Option:D
EXPLANATION
Conflict should be addressed in private, first, to better understand the concern being raised. Exploring the concern after the meeting gives the PM an opportunity to verify the concern and determine needed next steps without disrupting the meeting with all meeting attendees.
44A Project Manager is faced with an updated schedule that requires delivering a business result under a far more aggressive timeline. The projects technical resource manager has worked with the Project Manager on previous projects. Still, a team member indicates that the company does not have technical resources that could be added to the project to meet the new timeline. What should be the Project Manager’s next step?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Let the project sponsor know that an issue with a technical resource may put the project at risk
Ensure that upper management is aware of the lack of needed resources which may put the project at risk
Ask the technical resource manager about the availability of technical resources
Work with a third-party vendor to quickly acquire the needed resource
Correct Option:C
EXPLANATION
Per the Agile manifesto one should value individuals and interactions over processes and tools. Thus, it is best to meet with the resource manager to understand the real situation rather than informing sponsor first which might be a false alarm.
45A project manager has been asked to conduct a risk analysis that is based on a high-level scope. As part of the analysis, the project manager must use expert judgment to prepare a document. Which document-based action is being performed?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Creating the project charter
Preparing the scope statement document
Creating a project management plan
Documenting the risk management plan
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
Expert judgment is one of the tools and techniques for developing the project charter. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 4. Project Integration Management 4.2.1 Develop Project Charter, p79
46Project Manager Rachel is preparing for a phase gate review, and some of her peers are concerned because the project does not have any product deliverables. Which of the following is correct about phase gates?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
A phase gate is a review at the end of a phase.
Phase gates are required only at the end of a project, before delivering the product to a customer.
Phase gates are overhead and do not serve any purpose.
Every phase gate must have a product ready for customer inspection.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
Phase gate, also known as governance gate, is a review at the end of a phase in which a decision is made to continue to the next phase.
47A project manager receives complaints from a project sponsor because of a delay in developing a prototype. The project manager responds that the delay was due to a lack of knowledge in a specific skill that was needed by the cross-functional project team. How could the project manager avoid this type of situation in the future?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Create training sessions at the start of the project, so all necessary skills are learned.
List required skills for the project, and organize the project team based on those skills.
Consult with the project sponsor to add training once the lack of a specific skill becomes apparent.
Empower team members to problem solve where skills may be lacking, using the skills they do have.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
Develop the human resource management plan by defining the roles and responsibilities of the project team members in order to create a project organizational structure and provide guidance regarding how resources will be assigned and managed. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 9. Project Resource Management / 9.3.3 Develop Team: Outputs, p343 | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), 4 Implementing Agile: Creating An Agile Environment / 4.3.3 Generalizing Specialists, p42
48A projects daily standups are long and often last more than two hours. The project team uses the standup meetings for extended discussions about solutions to project obstacles. What should the Project Manager do to improve the daily standup meetings?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Invite department managers to participate in the team members discussions, in order to identify solutions in a business-like manner
Request shorter discussion time during each standup, leaving more time for working
Insert a new team member who will manage obstacles and meetings to discuss possible solutions
Coach team members that they have the opportunity to shorten all standup meetings and improve their method for identifying solutions
Correct Option:D
EXPLANATION
Agile team members should be encouraged to be servant leaders. This means a shared understanding of the purpose of a standup and the team charter. It also means that all team members are both capable and share responsibility.
49A new resource is assigned to fill in for a resource who is leaving. The new resource will be working on a small project that is critical to a larger program milestone. Unfortunately, there is a rumor that the new resource may be a problem, due to a lack of skills. How should the program manager respond to this rumor?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Assess the new resources communication skills to evaluate their ability to perform acceptably as part of the project team.
Meet with the new resource to discuss their skills and then determine how they can contribute to the project.
Privately ask the program management officer (PMO) to assign a different resource with better skills.
Meet with the functional manager of the new resource to discuss the rumor and see if it is true.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
A) No - This is not the best use of time, and unfairly makes presumptions on the candidate. B) Yes - This is the best answer. Without seeing performance first-hand, there is no available proof to the hearsay. C) No - This assumes that hearsay is fact, which may create a strained relationship between the Project Manager and functional manager. D) No - While this may give solace to the Project Manager, this is inappropriate and unwarranted. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 9. Project Resource Management / 9.4 Develop Team pp 336-338
50A team member could not be reached by email or phone during the week that they were absent. The team member had not notified anyone on the team prior to their absence. Due to the absence, several successor activities are behind schedule, impacting the projects critical path. How should the project manager respond to this situation?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Add a new resource who can complete the work package in a professional manner.
Discuss the situation with the team member, and work with them to identify a workable solution.
Require that the team member complete the work package more quickly when they return.
Ask the functional manager for additional support on the project, including assignment of a new resource
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
Key Rationale A) No - This is premature and will most likely take longer than attempting to rectify the situation. B) Yes - A Project Manager also has the ability to be a coach. Servant Leadership encourages listening and serving, and therefore it may be possible to compromise with the team member. C) No - This does not address the situation and is in direct contradiction to the coaching role of a Project Manager. D) No - This does not address the situation directly and offsets blame to a third party. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 10 Project Communications Management, p363 | The Agile Practice Guide (2017), Implementing Agile: Creating An Agile Environment / 4.2 Servant Leadership Empowers The Team, pp33-34
51A project that should have been 90 percent complete by now is only 65 percent complete. The total project budget is US$120,000 and the actual cost of work performed (ACWP) is US$80,000. What is the scheduled performance index (SPI) and cost performance index (CPI) of this project?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
The SPI is 0.72, and the CPI is 0.98.
The SPI is 1.38, and the CPI is 1.2.
The SPI is 0.94, and the CPI is 1.04.
The SPI is 0.80, and the CPI is 0.91.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
EV = % complete * budget: 65% * $120,000 = $78,000, AC = $80,000. CPI = EV/AC = $78,000/80,000 = 0.975 or 0.98 A CPI less than 1 means the project is over budget. PV = % complete * budget: 90% * $120,000 = $108,000, SPI = EV/PV = $78,000/108,000 = 0.72 A SPI less than 1 means the project is behind schedule.
52A project manager is working with a customer who repeatedly submits new feature requests for an existing software product. The project manager has already provided the completed scope definition for the product’s next version release to stakeholders. Which step is appropriate for the project manager to take next?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Hold a meeting with the product manager to request that the number of new requests be reduced.
Define project boundaries immediately with the sponsor.
Organize a meeting with the stakeholders to set expectations.
Analyze the scope management plan and iterate it through the scope definition process.
Correct Option:D
EXPLANATION
The scope management plan documents how the project and product scope will be de?ned, validated, and controlled. The key benefit of this document is that it provides guidance and direction on how scope will be managed throughout the project. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 5. Project Scope management / 5.1.3.1 Scope Management Plan, p137
53A project has the following characteristics: -US$3 million budget -Planned cost of US$630,000 -Actual cost of US$650,000 -Earned value of US$540,000 Which statement is true about the current status of the project?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
The project is ahead of schedule and under budget.
The project is behind schedule and over budget.
The project is ahead of schedule and over budget.
The project is behind schedule and under budget.
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
CV = EV - AC; 540-650 = -110. SV = EV - PV; 540-630 = -90. Negative cost variance means over budget. Negative schedule variance means behind schedule. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 7. Project Cost Management / 7.4.2.2 Data Analysis, p262
54A project manager receives the following for a new project: -assumptions -restrictions -preliminary scope After receiving this information, what should the project manager do first?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Review and understand the business case and project goals.
Put together the project team and assign project tasks.
Build the project schedule and determine the critical path.
Ensure project charter approval is obtained from the sponsor.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The business case and project goals need to be understood first before a charter can be written. Building a team and a schedule come later in the process. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 1. Introduction / 1.2.6.1 Project Business Case, p30-32
55A project manager joins a project that has the following features: -Globally distributed team -Budget that is fixed -Very tight deadlines During planning, what should the project manager do to avoid any scope creep and keep the team focused on delivering a product that meets requirements?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Put any changes to scope through the formal approval process.
Hold daily stand-ups with all development teams.
Ask that all development team leads prepare detailed requirements.
Disallow stakeholders from directly interacting with the development team leads.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
Scope creep can be avoided by adherence to the agreed upon change management process. Project Manager’s Portable Handbook, 3rd Ed (2010), 6 Project / 6.4.2 Getting Started
56A project is delayed. To obtain the desired quality level of the deliverables, a change is required. First, the project manager issues a formal change request and communicates the change to all stakeholders. Then, the project manager learns that this communications approach did not meet stakeholders’ expectations. What should the project manager do next?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Refer to the communications management and stakeholder engagement plans.
Provide a change request to include stakeholders’ expectations in the project management plan.
Organize a meeting with the project sponsor to better understand stakeholders’ expectations.
Review the communications management plan, follow it, and issue a status report.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The Monitoring of the communications process may result in improved effectiveness of communication through additional and possibly amended communications plans and activities. Such iterations illustrate the continuous nature of the Project Communications Management processes. Issues or key performance indicators, risks, or con?icts may trigger an immediate revision. The Project Management Tool Kit: 100 Tips and Techniques for Getting the Job Done Right (2010), 11. Communication Planning / Communication process, Determine Communications Requirements
57A project sponsor asks the Project Manager to change production materials because these materials could cause health problems to consumers. What is an appropriate step for the Project Manager to take?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Follow the project change control process and thoroughly investigate the matter
Immediately implement the change and submit a change request for formal documentation
End the current work and enact the change control process
Reject the change because the request is outside of scope
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The impacts of the change to the project must be at least qualitatively assessed and quantitatively assessed before submitted to the chance control board. A change control board relies on the Project Manager to provide all available information for effective decision-making.
58A project is in the execution phase. Three necessary changes are brought to the attention of the team. The team members all have differing opinions regarding how to implement the changes. What should the project manager do?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Confirm that all team members and stakeholders understand and follow the change management plan.
Hold a meeting with the board and project sponsor to address the issue.
Organize a meeting with team members to review the issues and request changes where needed.
Ensure all requested changes are applied to the project and communicate directly with all team members.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The team and project manager must follow the documented and agreed upon change management processes. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 4. Project Integration Management / 4.2.3.1 Project Management Plan -Additional Components, p88 | PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 3. The Role of The Project Manager / 3.1 Overview, p51
59After a project ends, the project manager and project team members are still being asked to do the following: -Evaluate new requirements -Make minor modifications -Solve technical issues The project manager wants to ensure the product or service developed by the project now has operational support. What should the project manager do?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Complete the handover of the project.
Review the acceptance criteria and get acceptance.
Formally disband the project team and find a new project.
Continue to fulfill the requests as the product is still being developed.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
Project closure and hand-off will ensure knowledge transfer to production and/or operations. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 4. Project Integration Management / 4.7 Close Project or Phase, pp 121-123
60The initial draft of a project management plan is completed. The project manager plans to show the draft to stakeholders who are located around the globe for approval. The project manager has limited time to gain approval, and the project management plan is lengthy. The project manager needs to ensure that the review of the plan is completed on time. Which action should the project manager take?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Send the plan for the stakeholders to review, and then meet with the all of them to discuss it.
Have each stakeholder review the plan individually, adding their comments, and then update the document accordingly.
Ask select stakeholders to review particular sections of the plan based on their areas of expertise.
Organize individual meetings with only the key stakeholders to walk them through the plan.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
By sending the project management plan to the attendees in advance, the PM can insure that the meeting is most productive. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 3. The Role of the Project manager / 3.4.4.3 Politics, Power, and Getting Things Done, pp62-63 | Project Manager’s Portable Handbook, 3rd Ed (2010), Section 9. Project Communications / 9.2 Project Communications
61Successful project leaders nurture team members’ skills and knowledge, and keep members motivated throughout the project. Which action helps to promote successful project leadership?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Create a team reward for each successfully-completed task.
Schedule daily sessions where team members can voice concerns and receive a response.
Promote team challenges by delegating project tasks.
Be assertive, and stand up for the team’s needs, concerns, and beliefs.
Correct Option:D
EXPLANATION
The primary goal of a Project Manager in relation to the project team is to ensure that the team has the time and resources to do their job and to remove any barriers they may encounter. By standing up for the team’s beliefs the Project Manager is demonstrating their support for the team.
62A planned task in a sprint does not get completed due to an issue that appeared three days ago but did not get resolved. The Project Manager wants to prevent this type of situation in the future. What should the Project Manager do?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
During the retrospective, examine the issue
In the demo, address the issue
During the next iteration planning meeting, discuss the issue
In the next daily standup meeting, review the issue
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
A retrospective is a great opportunity to talk about what went right, what went wrong, lessons learned, and what to improve for next time.
63A project sponsor is risk averse and is therefore concerned about negative impacts on the project. To help with this concern, the project team identifies four project risks and then evaluates both the probability of occurrence and the impact of the risk if it occurs. The team uses a 1-5 scale, 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest. Risk A B C D Probability 1 4 2 2 Impact 5 4 5 2 Based on the table, in what order should the project manager rank these risks for management purposes?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
B, A, D, C
B, C, A, D
B, A, C, D
C, D, A, B
Correct Option:B
EXPLANATION
Risk severity is the product of probability and impact; the higher the product, the higher the risk is rated. PMBOK Guide, Figure 11-5 Example Probability and Impact Matrix with Scoring Scheme. A=0.08, B=0.28, C-0.24, D= 0.03, ‘BCAD’. Project Manager’s Handbook, Risk Ranking by Intersection, A=5, B=7, C=6, D=3 BCAD” PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018) PMI/PMI/11.5.2.9/ | Project Manager’s Portable Handbook
64A project manager needs to successfully lead a project that has diverse, globally dispersed team members. What should the project manager do to develop cultural sensitivity?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Be aware of local customs, remain flexible when working with team members, and recognize that culture is learned.
Seek help from the human resource department to obtain formal training in this area.
Travel to each team member’s geographic location to gain awareness of their culture and meet face-to-face.
Explore each team member’s culture in-depth for several weeks to be sensitive to their needs.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The project manager needs to be proactive and learn what he can while also maintaining flexibility. Project Manager’s Portable Handbook, 3rd Ed (2010), Section 9. Project Communications / 9.2.4 Role of Informal Communications
65On a project, three critical risks with a high-impact are identified. The project manager must find a solution to address these risks immediately. Three specific resources are required to address the risks; however, they are already committed to another project with critical deliverables. Which action should the project manager take?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Option A: Check with the functional manager regarding the resources’ availability and Negotiate task crashing or rescheduling with the functional manager.
Option B: Hire outside resources and Assign these resources to handle the tasks.
Option C: Assume the risks and Control these risks often to reduce potential impact.
Option D: Generate a contingency reserve to solve the potential schedule delay and Mitigate the possible impact.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The functional manager is the person who will be able to reschedule, reassign or replace resources. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 9. Project Resource Management / 9.6.2.3 Interpersonal and Team Skills, p357
66Schedule performance issues are occurring on a project. After assessing the issue, the project manager determines that the cause is the expertise levels of project resources. Specifically, a few of the senior-level resources check irrelevant details, and some inexperienced resources take too much time to complete tasks. The project manager needs to enhance team performance. Which action is appropriate to take?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Implement training where necessary and create a checklist for all team members.
Request that the senior-level resources help the inexperienced resources.
Advise the senior-level resources and replace the junior-level resources.
Design and conduct training for the junior-level staff.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The PM must train the junior members and supply a checklist so that all are checking all and only what they are supposed to be checking. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 9. Project Resource Management / 9.4 Develop Team, p342
67Multiple new members are added to an ongoing project. Although all original team members received basic training on the specifics of the business operation that the project supports, the new members do not have the same basic understanding. This lack of understanding results in decreased productivity. How should the project manager respond to this issue?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Ask the original team members to provide support and training, and schedule a second kick-off meeting for new team members.
Assure all new team members that they should feel comfortable asking for help from both the long-term members and project manager.
Revise the team, so that the newer resources are moved to other projects and resources with relevant experience are added, then log lessons learned.
Recognize that this is a common occurrence when teams experience change, and revise the schedule to allow for the slight decrease in productivity.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
It is the PM’s responsibility to make sure that the new members are adequately trained. This approach provides that training. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 9. Project Resource Management / 9.4.2.4 Interpersonal and Team Skills, p341
68A projects single sponsor has been replaced by a steering committee due to a significant increase in project size. How should the project manager approach this change?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Tailor communications to the new steering committee, recognizing that there has been a change in stakeholder structure.
Follow the initial project plan, recognizing that the stakeholder group now includes the steering committee members.
Schedule a low-key introductory meeting with the new steering committee and the team, while continuing to follow the initial project plan.
Ensure that the new steering committee members receive the projects current status report.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The project manager needs to be proactive and respond to this change. The same communication that was planned for a single sponsor will not necessarily work for this steering committee. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 10. Project Communication Management / 10.1.2.2 Communications Requirements Analysis, p369-370
69Prior to preparing a monthly project status report, a project manager identifies three new risks. All of these risks could impact critical key milestones. The project manager wants to reference additional information before presenting this new risk information. To which sources should the project manager refer?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Risk register and risk report
Risk register and organizational process assets
Risk management plan and risk report
Lessons learned repository and risk report
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The project manager must check the risk register and risk report to see if this is indeed a new risk and to see if there was action already planned around it. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 11. Project Risk Management / 11.7 Monitor Risks, pp 409-411
70A week prior to the project kick-off call, a project manager meets with a key project resource to gain a deeper understanding of how complex the project deliverables are. The resource expresses concern and worry regarding the deliverables. What should the project manager do to ensure that the deliverables are realistic?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Perform a feasibility study, and then assess the results.
Discuss the resource’s concerns with the sponsor, and modify the project charter.
Note the concerns in the issue log to review at a later date.
Identify threats and preventive actions by conducting a risk assessment.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
To ensure that the deliverable are realistic, the project manager needs to conduct a feasibility study and then evaluate the results. none of the other choices will ensure this. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 1. Introduction / 1.2.6 Project Management Business Documents, p29
71During user testing a client agreed to a final product. A few days later the client is reconsidering their agreement. What should the project manager do?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Review the projects acceptance criteria.
Refer to the projects quality management plan.
Review the requirements documentation.
Refer to the project’s project charter.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The definition of acceptance criteria may significantly increase or decrease quality costs and, therefore, project costs. Satisfying all acceptance criteria implies the needs of the stakeholders have been met. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 5. Project Scope Management / 5.5.3.1 Accepted Deliverables, p166 | The Project Management Tool Kit: 100 Tips and Techniques for Getting the Job Done Right (2010), 88. Scope verification / Scope Process
72Although the sponsor and project team say that the new project has an adequate budget and realistic schedule, the project manager worries that unplanned events could threaten the projects success. What should the project manager do first?
SELECT THE CORRECT ANSWER
Engage in identification of project risks, then assess those risks.
Ask the project sponsor for additional funding to cover project planning.
Schedule a meeting with the functional manager to address the potential impact of unplanned risks.
Execute the project as planned, recognizing that additional project funds must be requested at a later point in the project.
Correct Option:A
EXPLANATION
The project manager needs to be proactive and to familiarize himself with the identified risks and their mitigation strategies. PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition (2018), 11. Project Risk Management / 11.1.2.1 Expert Judgement, p 404
