Learn the best approach for project managers when a key deliverable depends on acquiring new resources. Understand how to manage risks, involve stakeholders, and ensure project success.
Table of Contents
Question
A project is currently on its second iteration out of six. The team realizes that a key deliverable depends on the acquisition of a new device. What should the project manager do next?
A. Register a risk and escalate it to the project sponsor.
B. Include the responsibility for acquisition with the core team.
C. Detail the reason for the deliverable delay in the status report.
D. Invite the stakeholders to discuss the prioritization of a new deliverable.
Answer
A. Register a risk and escalate it to the project sponsor.
Explanation
Since the acquisition of a new device is crucial for completing a key deliverable, this constitutes a potential risk that could impact the project’s timeline and objectives. The project manager should formally register the risk and escalate it to the project sponsor to ensure it is properly addressed and prioritized. By doing so, the project manager can seek guidance and resources to mitigate or resolve the risk, ensuring the project stays on track.
When a project team identifies that a key deliverable depends on the acquisition of an external device or resource, this introduces a potential risk to the project’s timeline and success. The correct course of action is to register this as a risk in the project’s risk register and escalate it to the project sponsor or appropriate decision-making authority. Here’s why this is the most appropriate response:
Risk Identification and Documentation
- The dependency on acquiring a new device is an external factor that could delay the deliverable or impact project objectives if not addressed promptly.
- Registering this as a risk ensures it is formally documented and tracked, allowing for proactive mitigation planning.
Escalation to Project Sponsor
- Escalating the issue to the sponsor ensures that higher-level stakeholders are aware of the situation and can provide support, such as approving additional budget, expediting procurement processes, or reallocating resources.
- Sponsors often have the authority or influence to resolve issues that are beyond the project manager’s control.
Alignment with Risk Management Best Practices
- PMI’s Project Management Professional (PMP) framework emphasizes identifying risks early and involving key stakeholders in their resolution.
- This approach aligns with the responsibility of ensuring risks are communicated effectively and mitigated in collaboration with decision-makers.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect
B. Include the responsibility for acquisition with the core team: While involving the team in brainstorming solutions is helpful, assigning acquisition responsibility without addressing risks or escalation may not resolve procurement challenges effectively.
C. Detail the reason for the deliverable delay in the status report: Reporting delays without taking action to mitigate risks does not address the root cause of the problem or prevent further impacts on the project.
D. Invite stakeholders to discuss prioritization of a new deliverable: Changing priorities should only be considered after risk mitigation efforts fail or if directed by stakeholders following escalation.
By registering and escalating risks appropriately, project managers demonstrate accountability and ensure that potential issues are addressed efficiently, minimizing disruptions to project progress.
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.