Learn the next step a project manager should take when key project deliverables are not working properly and a stakeholder withholds approval. Reviewing the requirements traceability matrix is critical to identify and resolve the issues.
Table of Contents
Question
Toward the end of a project, the project manager did not receive approval from a key stakeholder because the necessary deliverables were not functioning as expected. What should the project manager do next?
A. Review the stakeholder engagement plan.
B. Review the requirements traceability matrix.
C. Review the quality management plan.
D. Review the work breakdown structure (WBS).
Answer
B. Review the requirements traceability matrix.
Explanation
The best next step for the project manager in this situation is to review the requirements traceability matrix. The key reasons are:
- The requirements traceability matrix maps each requirement to the corresponding deliverable(s). By reviewing this matrix, the project manager can identify which specific requirements are not being met by the malfunctioning deliverables. This allows them to pinpoint the root cause of the issues.
- The matrix also traces each requirement back to the stakeholder(s) who requested it. This reminds the project manager of which stakeholders care most about each requirement. They can then engage those stakeholders to discuss the problems with the deliverables and determine acceptable resolutions.
- Reviewing the requirements traceability matrix will likely lead the project manager to discover missing requirements, inaccurately implemented requirements, or requirements that have changed without being captured. They can then take corrective actions, such as updating the project scope, modifying the deliverables, or securing additional time and resources to meet the requirements.
- The other options, while relevant, do not directly address the core issue of deliverables not meeting requirements. The stakeholder engagement plan, quality management plan, and work breakdown structure are all useful project documents, but the requirements traceability matrix is the most pertinent artifact to consult when deliverables are not functioning as expected.
In summary, by carefully examining the requirements traceability matrix, the project manager can identify the misalignments between requirements and deliverables, engage the right stakeholders to resolve the issues, and take targeted corrective actions to bring the deliverables back in line with expectations. This is the most effective next step to get the project back on track and secure stakeholder approval.
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