PMP Practice Questions #101
You are the project manager for a new infrastructure development project. One of the key project stakeholders insists on using high-quality, durable materials for construction, emphasizing the project’s long-term value. However, the initial cost estimates for these materials are significantly higher than the project’s budget, and to your understanding, the current materials also produce the acceptable quality. As a project manager, how would you address this situation?
A. Propose a reduction in the scope of the project to accommodate the high-quality materials.
B. Keep this issue open for the coming milestone review.
C. Continue with current materials that fit the budget.
D. Conduct a cost-benefit analysis using high-quality materials.
Analysis:
In this scenario, you are a project manager for an infrastructure development project. A key stakeholder has requested high-quality, durable materials for construction, which are significantly more expensive than what the project’s budget allows. Your current understanding suggests that the materials already planned for use are of acceptable quality. The challenge is to manage this situation effectively without compromising the project’s budget or stakeholder satisfaction.
Analysis of Options:
Option A: Propose a reduction in the scope of the project to accommodate the high-quality materials. This solution directly addresses the stakeholder’s request for better materials. However, it may not fully acknowledge the broader implications such as the impact on project deliverables and overall objectives. Reducing the project scope might solve the budget issue but could compromise other critical aspects of the project.
Option B: Keep this issue open for the coming milestone review. This approach delays addressing the concern, potentially leading to project uncertainties and risks. It does not provide an immediate solution or satisfy the stakeholder’s immediate concerns.
Option C: Continue with current materials that fit the budget. While this option aligns with the budget constraints, it disregards the stakeholder’s preference for higher-quality materials. This could lead to dissatisfaction and may not fulfill the project’s long-term value proposition as perceived by the stakeholder.
Option D: Conduct a cost-benefit analysis using high-quality materials. This option allows for a thorough evaluation of the stakeholder’s request against the project’s financial limits. It provides a data-driven basis for decision-making, balancing the need for quality with budgetary realities. This approach also demonstrates a willingness to consider stakeholder input while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Conclusion: Option D, conducting a cost-benefit analysis, stands out as the most effective approach. It involves a detailed examination of the benefits and costs associated with using high-quality materials, providing a comprehensive view of how this change might impact the project’s overall goals. This method ensures informed decision-making, balances key project constraints, and acknowledges the stakeholder’s concerns, making it the most suitable option for this scenario.
PMP Exam Content Outline Mapping
| Domain | Task |
|---|---|
| Process | Task 7: Plan and manage quality of products/deliverables |
| Process | Task 10: Manage project changes |
| People | Task 9: Collaborate with stakeholders |
Topics Covered
- Change Control
- Cost Benefit Analysis
- Quality Management
- Stakeholder Engagement
