Learn how to effectively address conflicts between senior team members during critical project phases. Discover PMP-recommended conflict resolution strategies for success.
Table of Contents
Question
During a critical phase of your project, a conflict arises between two senior team members over resource allocation. Both have valid arguments, and the conflict is delaying progress. How should you address this issue?
A. Use your positional power to make a final decision and enforce it.
B. Facilitate a meeting between the two members to find a compromise that satisfies both parties.
C. Escalate the issue to senior management for resolution, as it involves critical resources.
D. Ignore the conflict and let the team members resolve it themselves since they are senior professionals.
Answer
B. Facilitate a meeting between the two members to find a compromise that satisfies both parties.
Explanation
Conflict resolution is an essential leadership skill. Facilitating a meeting allows both sides to express their concerns and work toward a mutually beneficial solution, keeping the project moving forward.
In project management, conflicts are inevitable, especially during high-pressure phases. The PMBOK Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge) outlines several conflict resolution strategies, including collaborating, compromising, smoothing, forcing, and avoiding. The most appropriate strategy depends on the context of the conflict and the dynamics of the team.
Why Option B is Correct
Facilitating a meeting to find a compromise aligns with collaborative and compromising techniques, which are highly effective in resolving disputes involving senior professionals. Here’s why:
- Encourages Open Communication: By organizing a discussion, you allow both parties to express their perspectives and concerns in a structured manner. This fosters mutual understanding and respect.
- Promotes Collaboration: A compromise-based approach ensures that both parties contribute to finding a middle ground that benefits the project without undermining their positions.
- Maintains Team Morale: Senior team members often set an example for others. Resolving their conflict constructively helps maintain trust and morale within the team.
- Prevents Escalation: Addressing the issue directly avoids unnecessary delays or escalation to higher management, which could disrupt project progress further.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect
A. Use your positional power to make a final decision and enforce it: This “forcing” approach can lead to resentment and damage relationships within the team. It may solve the issue temporarily but risks long-term collaboration.
C. Escalate the issue to senior management for resolution: Escalation should only be a last resort when internal resolution fails. It undermines your authority as a project manager and delays resolution.
D. Ignore the conflict and let the team members resolve it themselves: Avoidance can lead to unresolved tensions that may resurface later, potentially harming the project and team dynamics.
Key Takeaways for PMP Exam
- Always aim for collaborative or compromise-based solutions when dealing with conflicts involving critical resources or senior stakeholders.
- Use active listening, empathy, and facilitation skills to guide discussions toward mutually acceptable outcomes.
- Avoid autocratic or passive approaches unless absolutely necessary.
By understanding these principles, you can effectively manage conflicts in real-world projects while demonstrating leadership qualities essential for PMP-certified professionals!
PMI PMP certification exam assessment practice question and answer (Q&A) dump including multiple choice questions (MCQ) and objective type questions, with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the PMI PMP exam and earn PMI PMP certification.