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Mandatory vs. Discretionary Dependencies: Which Can You Control in Project Management?
Learn about discretionary dependencies in predictive project management. Understand how project teams can influence and adjust these flexible task sequences to optimize schedules, mitigate risks, and improve project efficiency.
Question
In predictive project management, which type of dependency can be influenced by the project team?
A. Mandatory Dependency
B. Discretionary Dependency
C. External Dependency
Answer
B. Discretionary Dependency
Explanation
In predictive project management, a discretionary dependency is determined by the project team based on best practices, historical data, or specific preferences for how the work should be sequenced. Unlike mandatory dependencies (which are dictated by physical or technical limitations) or external dependencies (which rely on factors outside the project’s control), discretionary dependencies provide flexibility. Because these dependencies are not strictly required by the nature of the work, the project manager and team can choose to modify or remove them later to optimize the schedule or perform tasks in parallel if necessary.