When a team member leaves during an agile project with no replacement, the project manager should update the issue log and refer to the resource management plan. Learn the best approach for this PMP exam scenario.
Table of Contents
Question
In an agile environment, a project is running iteration four out of six. A team member leaves the company with no replacement.
What should the project manager do?
A. Ask the sponsor for an experienced team member in the company to help the project team.
B. Reduce the scope of the project and inform stakeholders.
C. Ask the team for extra work to fulfill the project commitment.
D. Update the issue log and refer to the resource management plan to address the situation.
Answer
In this agile project scenario, the best action for the project manager to take is to update the issue log and refer to the resource management plan to address the situation (option D).
D. Update the issue log and refer to the resource management plan to address the situation.
Explanation
Here’s why:
Updating the issue log documents the personnel change and its potential impact. This is important for tracking risks and changes that could affect the project timeline, scope or budget.
The resource management plan, a component of the project management plan, outlines how to acquire, manage and release project resources, including team members. It should contain strategies for dealing with unexpected changes in human resources.
By consulting this plan, the PM can follow established protocols such as redistributing work, adjusting timelines, or expediting the replacement hiring process. The plan allows the PM to respond to the issue in a controlled, methodical way that aligns with prior planning.
The other options are less optimal:
A) While getting temporary help is an option, the PM shouldn’t assume the sponsor can quickly provide an experienced replacement. The resource management plan is the first place to look for guidance.
B) Reducing project scope may eventually be necessary, but it’s premature to do so before exploring other resourcing options outlined in the plan. Scope changes should be a last resort.
C) Asking the team to work extra hours right away presumes they have bandwidth and willingness to do so. This could lower morale and productivity. The PM should attempt other resourcing options first.
Therefore, updating the issue log and referring to the resource management plan (option D) is the best initial step the project manager should take to address the team member’s departure.
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.