PMI-ACP Practice Questions #38
Your team is working on a project where the problem is well-defined, but the solution requires careful evaluation among multiple possible options. Expert analysis and data-driven decision-making are crucial to identifying the best approach. Which Cynefin Framework approach is most suitable for handling this situation?
A. Act → Sense → Respond
B. Sense → Analyze → Respond
C. Probe → Sense → Respond
D. Sense → Categorize → Respond
Analysis
The question describes a scenario where the problem is well-defined, but the solution requires careful evaluation among multiple possible options. Additionally, expert analysis and data-driven decision-making are necessary to determine the best course of action. According to the Cynefin Framework, such situations fall under the Complicated domain. In this domain, there is no single best solution upfront, but with the help of expert analysis and structured evaluation, the most suitable approach can be determined. The correct decision-making pattern follows Sense → Analyze → Respond, as it allows for assessing the situation, applying structured analysis, and then taking an informed decision.
Analysis of Options
A: Act → Sense → Respond
This approach is used in the Chaotic domain, where there is extreme uncertainty and no clear path forward. The best action in such cases is to act first to establish some control, then sense the impact of the action, and respond accordingly. Since the given scenario describes a structured problem-solving situation rather than chaos, this option is incorrect.
B: Sense → Analyze → Respond
This approach is used in the Complicated domain, where there is a clear problem definition, but multiple possible solutions exist. The right approach is to first sense the situation, then analyze the available options using expert insights and data-driven evaluation, and finally respond with the best possible solution. Since this directly aligns with the scenario described, this is the correct answer.
C: Probe → Sense → Respond
This approach is used in the Complex domain, where cause-and-effect relationships are not well understood, and the best course of action is to experiment (probe), observe the results, and then adjust accordingly. However, in the given scenario, the problem is already well-defined, and structured analysis is required rather than experimentation. Thus, this option is incorrect.
D: Sense → Categorize → Respond
This approach is used in the Simple domain, where best practices and predefined processes can be applied. The process involves sensing the situation, categorizing it into known patterns, and applying a straightforward solution. However, the scenario here involves evaluating multiple solutions, which means it does not belong to the Simple category. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
Conclusion
The correct answer is Option B: Sense → Analyze → Respond, as it aligns with the Complicated domain of the Cynefin Framework, where expert analysis and structured decision-making are required to determine the best solution.
PMI – ACP Exam Content Outline Mapping
| Domain | Task |
| Mindset | Embrace Agile Mindset |
Topics Covered:
- Cynefin Framework classification for decision-making in structured uncertainty.
- Complicated domain characteristics (clear problem, multiple solutions, expert analysis required).
- Sense → Analyze → Respond approach for evaluating and selecting the best solution.
- Differentiating between Complex, Chaotic, and Simple domains to avoid incorrect decision-making.
- Role of expert analysis and data-driven decision-making in structured problem-solving.
- Application of Agile mindset in addressing problems that require structured evaluation.
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