PgMP Practice Questions #2
As a program manager, you are responsible for setting up standards and structures for program and project management, covering governance, tools, finance, and reporting, to drive efficiency and consistency across all program components. Which of the following approaches would best support this objective?
A. Consult component project managers to discuss their specific needs and expectations
B. Establish program and project management standards using a combination of industry best practices and organizational standards
C. Ask the program sponsor to recommend a suitable governance framework
D. Develop an approach based on your previous program management experience
Analysis:
In this question, as a program manager, your goal is to establish standards and structures for program and project management, encompassing governance, tools, finance, and reporting. This approach aims to drive efficiency and consistency across all program components. The question tests your understanding of how to set up a robust governance framework in the initial stages of program planning or formulation. The best approach should focus on creating standards based on relevant organizational and industry practices rather than personal preferences or isolated inputs.
Analysis of Options:
Option A: Consult component project managers to discuss their specific needs and expectations: In the program’s early stages, specific project managers and components may not yet be fully identified. Consulting project managers on their needs may lead to inconsistencies and misalignment with the broader governance framework, which requires a standardized, foundational approach that applies across all components rather than focusing on individual preferences.
Option B: Establish program and project management standards using a combination of industry best practices and organizational standards: It aligns with the goal of creating a governance structure that is both consistent and efficient. By using a blend of industry best practices and organizational standards, the program manager can develop a governance framework that is both relevant to the organization and grounded in proven practices. This ensures a well-structured foundation that supports program objectives and enables consistency across components.
Option C: Ask the program sponsor to recommend a suitable governance framework: While sponsors are key stakeholders, they may not possess the specific expertise required to establish detailed governance standards. Sponsors are typically business leaders focused on strategic outcomes rather than technical governance details. Asking the sponsor to decide on the governance framework could lead to inconsistencies or gaps in program management standards, as this responsibility typically lies with the program manager, who is expected to have a deep understanding of governance structures.
Option D: Develop an approach based on your previous program management experience” Relying solely on past experience can be limiting because previous approaches may not be entirely suitable for the current organization’s unique environment, standards, or expectations. This option lacks the adaptability to align with organizational processes and may fail to meet specific governance needs in the current context. It is more effective to base governance structures on both organizational standards and industry best practices than solely on personal experience.
Conclusion
The most appropriate answer is Option B: Establish program and project management standards using a combination of industry best practices and organizational standards. This option provides a balanced approach that ensures consistency and efficiency across all program components, aligning with both industry standards and the specific organizational context.
PgMP Certification Exam Content Outline Mapping
| Domain | Task |
|---|---|
| Governance | Task 1: Develop program and project management standards and structure (governance, tools, finance, and reporting) using industry best practices and organizational standards in order to drive efficiency and consistency among projects and deliver program objectives. |
Topics Covered
- Program Governance Framework:
- Industry Best Practices
- Organizational Standards and Processes
- Standardization for Efficiency and Consistency
- Role of the Program Manager
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