Project Management for the Profession Practice Test
Project management involves coordinating tasks, resources, and stakeholders to achieve project goals effectively. Key concepts include the Project Charter, which authorizes the project and gives the project manager authority, and the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), which decomposes the project into smaller tasks. Risk management is crucial, with qualitative analysis assessing risks based on probability and impact. The critical path identifies the longest sequence of tasks that determine project duration. Earned Value Management (EVM) tracks project performance by comparing planned progress with actual outcomes. Resource allocation and leveling ensure the efficient use of resources across tasks. Scope creep refers to uncontrolled changes in project scope, while the RACI matrix clarifies roles and responsibilities. Agile methodology emphasizes flexibility and iterative progress, while quality assurance ensures deliverables meet standards. Project closeout formalizes the completion of tasks and delivery, marking the end of the project.
Sample Questions and Answers
What is the primary purpose of project initiation?
A) To create a detailed project schedule
B) To obtain approval for the project to proceed
C) To finalize the project budget
D) To allocate resources to the project team
Answer: B) To obtain approval for the project to proceed
Explanation: Project initiation is the phase where the project’s objectives are defined, stakeholders are identified, and the project’s feasibility is assessed. Approval is sought to move forward with the project.
What does the term “scope creep” refer to in project management?
A) The project scope being too small
B) The expansion of the project scope without proper control
C) The completion of tasks ahead of schedule
D) The reduction in project scope due to budget constraints
Answer: B) The expansion of the project scope without proper control
Explanation: Scope creep occurs when additional features or deliverables are added to the project without proper evaluation or approval, potentially leading to delays and cost overruns.
Which of the following is an example of a milestone in a project?
A) Completing the project’s financial analysis
B) Submitting the final project deliverable
C) Delivering a specific phase of the project
D) Identifying project stakeholders
Answer: C) Delivering a specific phase of the project
Explanation: Milestones represent significant points or stages in a project that indicate progress. These are key achievements, such as completing a phase, that help in monitoring the project’s success.
What is a key characteristic of the “Project Closure” phase?
A) Creation of a work breakdown structure (WBS)
B) Review of project goals and objectives
C) Project deliverables are finalized and handed over
D) Identification of key project stakeholders
Answer: C) Project deliverables are finalized and handed over
Explanation: In the Project Closure phase, the final deliverables are completed and handed over to the client or stakeholders. This phase also involves closing out contracts and releasing project resources.
What is a critical path in project management?
A) The sequence of activities that cannot be delayed without delaying the project
B) The path with the least number of tasks
C) The path with the lowest cost
D) The activities that are least dependent on other tasks
Answer: A) The sequence of activities that cannot be delayed without delaying the project
Explanation: The critical path determines the longest sequence of tasks that must be completed on time for the project to finish on schedule. Delays in critical path activities lead to delays in the entire project.
Which of the following best describes “risk management”?
A) Identifying and planning for risks that may impact the project
B) Reducing project costs
C) Completing the project ahead of schedule
D) Managing team dynamics and performance
Answer: A) Identifying and planning for risks that may impact the project
Explanation: Risk management involves identifying potential risks, assessing their impact, and creating strategies to mitigate or address them. This helps minimize negative effects on the project.
What is the purpose of a work breakdown structure (WBS)?
A) To identify project stakeholders
B) To organize the work into smaller, manageable sections
C) To allocate resources to team members
D) To create the project budget
Answer: B) To organize the work into smaller, manageable sections
Explanation: A WBS decomposes a project into smaller components, making it easier to manage and assign responsibilities. It serves as a foundation for project planning and control.
What is earned value management (EVM) used to assess?
A) The project’s financial stability
B) The performance of the project in terms of scope, cost, and schedule
C) The quality of deliverables
D) Team performance and dynamics
Answer: B) The performance of the project in terms of scope, cost, and schedule
Explanation: EVM is a project management technique used to assess project performance by comparing the planned progress with the actual progress, including cost and schedule variances.
What is the first step in creating a project schedule?
A) Assigning resources
B) Estimating the project cost
C) Defining the project scope
D) Identifying project activities
Answer: D) Identifying project activities
Explanation: The first step in creating a project schedule is to identify all the tasks and activities that need to be completed. These tasks will form the basis of the schedule and help in estimating timelines.
What does “stakeholder management” involve in project management?
A) Assigning project resources
B) Identifying, engaging, and managing project stakeholders
C) Determining the project’s budget
D) Creating the work breakdown structure (WBS)
Answer: B) Identifying, engaging, and managing project stakeholders
Explanation: Stakeholder management is crucial for ensuring that the expectations and needs of stakeholders are met, helping to avoid conflicts and ensuring project success.
In the context of project management, what does “quality assurance” focus on?
A) Checking if deliverables meet the project’s standards
B) Meeting the project deadlines
C) Identifying the project budget
D) Increasing the project’s scope
Answer: A) Checking if deliverables meet the project’s standards
Explanation: Quality assurance focuses on ensuring that the project processes and deliverables meet defined quality standards. It involves preventive actions to avoid defects.
What is the main function of a project sponsor?
A) Managing the project team
B) Approving the project budget
C) Leading the day-to-day operations
D) Providing financial and strategic support
Answer: D) Providing financial and strategic support
Explanation: A project sponsor is a senior executive who supports the project with resources, financial backing, and guidance to ensure the project aligns with business goals.
What is the primary goal of project integration management?
A) To monitor and control project risks
B) To ensure all aspects of the project are aligned and work together
C) To define project goals and objectives
D) To manage project team dynamics
Answer: B) To ensure all aspects of the project are aligned and work together
Explanation: Integration management ensures that various project elements are coordinated. It involves overseeing all parts of the project to ensure they align with the overall objectives.
Which project management tool is best for visualizing task dependencies and project timelines?
A) Gantt chart
B) Fishbone diagram
C) Pareto chart
D) Histogram
Answer: A) Gantt chart
Explanation: Gantt charts are used to visualize the project timeline, showing the start and finish dates of project tasks, as well as dependencies between tasks.
Which of the following is an example of a constraint in project management?
A) A stakeholder meeting
B) A fixed deadline
C) A project risk
D) A team-building exercise
Answer: B) A fixed deadline
Explanation: A constraint refers to limitations on the project, such as time, cost, resources, or scope. A fixed deadline is a common time constraint in project management.
What is the primary function of project monitoring and controlling?
A) To ensure the project is progressing according to the plan
B) To develop the project budget
C) To select project team members
D) To communicate with stakeholders
Answer: A) To ensure the project is progressing according to the plan
Explanation: Monitoring and controlling focuses on tracking project performance to ensure it stays on track with the project plan. It involves making adjustments as needed.
What is the main benefit of conducting a project post-mortem?
A) To identify the root causes of project failure
B) To document the project budget
C) To create the initial project plan
D) To review the performance of the project team
Answer: A) To identify the root causes of project failure
Explanation: A post-mortem helps to analyze what went wrong or right in the project, enabling the team to learn from mistakes and successes for future projects.
What is the role of the project manager during the execution phase?
A) To define project scope
B) To coordinate tasks and manage the team
C) To establish project constraints
D) To perform risk analysis
Answer: B) To coordinate tasks and manage the team
Explanation: During the execution phase, the project manager ensures that project tasks are carried out, resources are used effectively, and the team works towards achieving project objectives.
What is the main purpose of a project charter?
A) To assign tasks to team members
B) To formally authorize the project and allocate resources
C) To create the project schedule
D) To develop the project budget
Answer: B) To formally authorize the project and allocate resources
Explanation: The project charter is a formal document that authorizes the project’s existence, outlines its objectives, and grants the project manager the authority to allocate resources and begin work.
What does the “plan-do-check-act” cycle relate to in project management?
A) A method for quality control
B) A strategy for team communication
C) A risk management framework
D) A project scheduling technique
Answer: A) A method for quality control
Explanation: The “plan-do-check-act” cycle is a continuous improvement process often used for quality control. It involves planning improvements, implementing them, checking results, and acting to improve further.
What does a project’s “triple constraint” refer to?
A) Scope, time, and quality
B) Time, cost, and quality
C) Scope, cost, and quality
D) Time, cost, and scope
Answer: D) Time, cost, and scope
Explanation: The triple constraint refers to the three key factors that affect project success: time (schedule), cost (budget), and scope (the work required). Any change in one of these factors typically impacts the others.
Which of the following is an example of a “lag” in a project schedule?
A) A task that cannot begin until another task has completed
B) A delay in a task due to lack of resources
C) A dependency between two tasks
D) A task being completed ahead of schedule
Answer: B) A delay in a task due to lack of resources
Explanation: A lag in scheduling refers to a delay or waiting period between tasks, often because of constraints like resource availability or external factors.
What is a risk register?
A) A list of all stakeholders involved in the project
B) A tool for identifying potential risks and planning mitigation strategies
C) A document that outlines the project scope
D) A chart for tracking project performance
Answer: B) A tool for identifying potential risks and planning mitigation strategies
Explanation: A risk register is a document used to identify, assess, and track risks throughout the project lifecycle. It includes the nature of risks, potential impacts, and mitigation strategies.
What is the main purpose of a project baseline?
A) To document the project’s goals and objectives
B) To provide a fixed reference for measuring project performance
C) To identify potential project risks
D) To create a list of stakeholders
Answer: B) To provide a fixed reference for measuring project performance
Explanation: A project baseline is the approved version of the project plan, including the scope, schedule, and cost. It serves as a reference point to compare actual performance during project execution.
What type of project structure organizes teams based on specific skills or functions?
A) Matrix organization
B) Functional organization
C) Projectized organization
D) Hybrid organization
Answer: B) Functional organization
Explanation: In a functional organization, project teams are organized based on specialized skills or functions, such as marketing, finance, or engineering. The project manager has less authority, and functional managers have greater control.
What is a “SWOT analysis” used for in project management?
A) To assess project risks
B) To evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to the project
C) To monitor project performance
D) To determine the project’s budget
Answer: B) To evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to the project
Explanation: A SWOT analysis helps to assess internal and external factors that may affect a project. It identifies the project’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and potential threats, providing insights for strategic planning.
In a project, what is the primary responsibility of the project manager?
A) To define the project scope
B) To supervise the project team and ensure project success
C) To develop the project schedule
D) To monitor the project’s financial performance
Answer: B) To supervise the project team and ensure project success
Explanation: The project manager’s primary role is to oversee all aspects of the project, from planning to execution, ensuring that the project is completed on time, within scope, and on budget.
Which of the following is considered a “soft skill” for a project manager?
A) Financial analysis
B) Communication and team leadership
C) Risk assessment
D) Scheduling
Answer: B) Communication and team leadership
Explanation: Soft skills like communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence are crucial for managing teams, resolving conflicts, and ensuring successful project outcomes.
In project management, what is a “change control process”?
A) A method of calculating the project budget
B) A procedure for making changes to the project’s scope, schedule, or costs
C) A way to monitor team performance
D) A tool for assessing project risks
Answer: B) A procedure for making changes to the project’s scope, schedule, or costs
Explanation: The change control process ensures that any changes to the project are carefully evaluated, approved, and documented. It helps to manage scope creep and ensure that changes align with project goals.
What does the “Resource Histogram” in project management show?
A) The overall project timeline and task dependencies
B) The allocation and usage of resources over time
C) The project’s financial status
D) The project’s risk management strategies
Answer: B) The allocation and usage of resources over time
Explanation: A resource histogram is a graphical tool used to display resource utilization throughout the project, helping to identify periods of overuse or underuse of resources.
What does “team collaboration” in project management involve?
A) Defining individual tasks and responsibilities
B) Encouraging team members to work together and share information
C) Managing project risks
D) Assigning resources to specific project activities
Answer: B) Encouraging team members to work together and share information
Explanation: Team collaboration involves fostering an environment where team members communicate openly, share knowledge, and collaborate to achieve common project goals efficiently.
What is a “scope statement” in project management?
A) A document that outlines the project’s goals and objectives
B) A list of all project deliverables
C) A description of the work required to complete the project
D) A schedule of project milestones
Answer: C) A description of the work required to complete the project
Explanation: The scope statement provides a detailed description of the project work, deliverables, and objectives, and sets boundaries to prevent scope creep.
What does the “Pareto Principle” (80/20 rule) suggest in project management?
A) 80% of the project budget should be spent on project planning
B) 20% of tasks typically account for 80% of the project’s success or issues
C) 80% of team members should be highly skilled
D) 20% of the project’s timeline should be allocated to risk management
Answer: B) 20% of tasks typically account for 80% of the project’s success or issues
Explanation: The Pareto Principle suggests that a small number of tasks or issues (about 20%) often have the most significant impact (about 80%) on the project’s outcome, whether in terms of success or challenges.
In project management, what is “crashing” a project schedule?
A) Identifying risks in the project plan
B) Shortening the project timeline by adding more resources to critical tasks
C) Reviewing the project’s budget and scope
D) Allocating more time for planning and less for execution
Answer: B) Shortening the project timeline by adding more resources to critical tasks
Explanation: Crashing involves adding additional resources to critical path tasks to shorten their duration and bring the project to completion sooner, often at an increased cost.
What is the primary focus of project quality management?
A) Ensuring the project is completed on time
B) Meeting the project’s scope requirements
C) Delivering the project on budget
D) Ensuring the project deliverables meet the required standards of quality
Answer: D) Ensuring the project deliverables meet the required standards of quality
Explanation: Quality management ensures that project processes and deliverables meet the specified standards and satisfy customer expectations. It involves both quality assurance and quality control.
What is the purpose of a “communication plan” in project management?
A) To outline the project’s budget and schedule
B) To define how information will be shared with stakeholders
C) To determine the project’s scope and deliverables
D) To track the project’s financial status
Answer: B) To define how information will be shared with stakeholders
Explanation: A communication plan specifies the methods, frequency, and channels for sharing project information with stakeholders, ensuring everyone stays informed and aligned.
What is the “Monte Carlo Simulation” used for in project management?
A) To create project budgets
B) To assess project risks and their potential impact on the project
C) To determine the critical path of the project
D) To visualize project timelines and tasks
Answer: B) To assess project risks and their potential impact on the project
Explanation: Monte Carlo simulations are used to analyze the probability of different outcomes in a project by running simulations based on varying inputs for risk factors.
What is the purpose of a project charter?
A) To develop the project schedule
B) To formally authorize the project and define its objectives
C) To establish the project budget
D) To assign tasks to team members
Answer: B) To formally authorize the project and define its objectives
Explanation: A project charter is a formal document that authorizes the project, outlines its objectives, defines the roles and responsibilities, and sets the project’s scope. It serves as a high-level agreement between stakeholders and the project team.
Which of the following is a key benefit of project stakeholder management?
A) Managing the project’s budget
B) Ensuring stakeholders are satisfied and engaged throughout the project
C) Creating the project’s scope statement
D) Monitoring project risks
Answer: B) Ensuring stakeholders are satisfied and engaged throughout the project
Explanation: Effective stakeholder management helps ensure that stakeholders are kept informed, their expectations are managed, and their needs are addressed, which leads to better project outcomes.
What is the main purpose of a “Gantt chart”?
A) To identify the critical path of the project
B) To outline the project scope
C) To visually display the project schedule and task dependencies
D) To assess project risks and mitigation strategies
Answer: C) To visually display the project schedule and task dependencies
Explanation: A Gantt chart is a visual tool used to plan, track, and manage the project schedule. It shows tasks, their durations, and dependencies, helping teams visualize the project timeline.
Which of the following describes the “Critical Path Method” (CPM)?
A) A method for evaluating project costs
B) A scheduling technique that identifies the longest path of dependent tasks
C) A process for identifying project risks
D) A strategy for managing stakeholder expectations
Answer: B) A scheduling technique that identifies the longest path of dependent tasks
Explanation: The Critical Path Method (CPM) is a scheduling technique used to determine the longest sequence of dependent tasks in a project. This critical path defines the project’s minimum duration and identifies tasks that cannot be delayed.
What is a “kickoff meeting” in project management?
A) A meeting held to discuss the final deliverables of the project
B) A meeting at the end of the project to assess the outcomes
C) A meeting to initiate the project, align the team, and clarify goals and expectations
D) A meeting held to review the project’s budget and timeline
Answer: C) A meeting to initiate the project, align the team, and clarify goals and expectations
Explanation: The kickoff meeting marks the official start of the project. It sets the stage for team collaboration, clarifies objectives, defines roles, and ensures everyone is aligned with the project goals.
What does the “Work Breakdown Structure” (WBS) help to do?
A) Identify project risks
B) Organize the project scope into manageable components
C) Track project performance
D) Assign resources to project tasks
Answer: B) Organize the project scope into manageable components
Explanation: A Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a hierarchical decomposition of the project scope into smaller, manageable components or work packages. It helps organize the work and ensures all deliverables are covered.
What is the main purpose of “earned value management” (EVM) in project management?
A) To calculate the project’s net present value
B) To measure project performance in terms of scope, time, and cost
C) To create a work breakdown structure
D) To assess stakeholder satisfaction
Answer: B) To measure project performance in terms of scope, time, and cost
Explanation: Earned Value Management (EVM) is a technique used to assess project performance by comparing the planned progress with actual performance in terms of cost, schedule, and scope.
What is a “contingency reserve” in project management?
A) A fund set aside for unplanned project tasks
B) A reserve of resources to be used in case of project changes or risks
C) The primary source of funding for project activities
D) A tool for measuring the success of the project
Answer: B) A reserve of resources to be used in case of project changes or risks
Explanation: A contingency reserve is a budget or resource pool allocated for addressing risks or unexpected issues that may arise during the project. It ensures that the project can handle uncertainties without affecting the overall objectives.
Which of the following is a technique for monitoring and controlling project performance?
A) SWOT analysis
B) Risk register
C) Project dashboard
D) Work breakdown structure
Answer: C) Project dashboard
Explanation: A project dashboard is a visual tool that provides a real-time overview of the project’s progress, including key metrics such as cost, schedule, and scope. It helps managers monitor performance and make informed decisions.
What does “scope creep” refer to in project management?
A) The process of managing project resources
B) The tendency for the project scope to gradually expand without formal approval
C) The delay in the project schedule
D) The assessment of project risks
Answer: B) The tendency for the project scope to gradually expand without formal approval
Explanation: Scope creep occurs when new features or requirements are added to the project without proper approval, often leading to budget and schedule overruns. Managing scope creep is crucial to keeping the project on track.
What is the primary goal of project procurement management?
A) To assign tasks to team members
B) To manage project risks
C) To acquire goods and services from external vendors
D) To monitor and control project quality
Answer: C) To acquire goods and services from external vendors
Explanation: Procurement management involves acquiring goods, services, or resources from external suppliers to complete the project. It includes processes like vendor selection, contract negotiation, and managing supplier performance.
In project management, what is a “milestone”?
A) A task that marks a key achievement or decision point in the project
B) A budget allocation for project activities
C) A tool for assessing project risks
D) A method for calculating project timelines
Answer: A) A task that marks a key achievement or decision point in the project
Explanation: Milestones are significant points in the project where major accomplishments or decisions are made. They help track progress and ensure that the project stays on course.
What is the difference between “direct costs” and “indirect costs” in project management?
A) Direct costs are those that can be attributed to specific project tasks, while indirect costs are general overhead costs
B) Direct costs are associated with risk management, while indirect costs are related to scope
C) Direct costs are incurred after project completion, while indirect costs are incurred during the project
D) There is no difference between direct and indirect costs
Answer: A) Direct costs are those that can be attributed to specific project tasks, while indirect costs are general overhead costs
Explanation: Direct costs are expenses that can be directly linked to specific project activities, such as labor and materials. Indirect costs are general expenses, such as utilities or administration, that cannot be attributed to a specific task.
What is the primary objective of a project’s “scope management”?
A) To define and control the work required for the project
B) To develop the project’s budget
C) To identify project stakeholders
D) To monitor project performance
Answer: A) To define and control the work required for the project
Explanation: Scope management ensures that the project includes all the necessary work and only the work required to complete the project successfully. It helps prevent scope creep and ensures that deliverables are met.
What is a “project milestone”?
A) A critical task that must be completed before other tasks can begin
B) A point in the project where a significant achievement is reached
C) A resource allocation to a project task
D) A change in the project’s scope
Answer: B) A point in the project where a significant achievement is reached
Explanation: Milestones are key points in the project where major deliverables are completed, or important decisions are made. They are used to track progress and are often used to evaluate if the project is on schedule.
What is “resource leveling” in project management?
A) Adjusting the project schedule to avoid resource over-allocation
B) Determining the budget for each project task
C) Allocating resources evenly across the project tasks
D) Reviewing the quality of project deliverables
Answer: A) Adjusting the project schedule to avoid resource over-allocation
Explanation: Resource leveling involves adjusting the schedule to ensure that resources are not over-allocated or under-utilized. It aims to balance resource usage over the project lifecycle to avoid burnout or inefficiencies.
What does “project risk management” involve?
A) Determining the project’s budget and schedule
B) Identifying, assessing, and managing risks that may affect the project
C) Developing the project’s scope and deliverables
D) Creating a communication plan for the project
Answer: B) Identifying, assessing, and managing risks that may affect the project
Explanation: Risk management includes identifying potential risks, assessing their likelihood and impact, and implementing mitigation strategies. It aims to minimize the impact of risks on the project’s objectives.
What is “change management” in the context of project management?
A) Identifying the stakeholders and their needs
B) Developing and controlling changes to the project scope
C) Implementing changes to the project budget
D) Ensuring project tasks are completed on schedule
Answer: B) Developing and controlling changes to the project scope
Explanation: Change management focuses on how to handle changes to the project scope, schedule, or budget. It involves assessing the impact of changes, getting approval from stakeholders, and updating the project plan accordingly.
What is the first step in the project procurement process?
A) Selecting vendors
B) Developing procurement contracts
C) Defining project needs and requirements
D) Negotiating terms and conditions
Answer: C) Defining project needs and requirements
Explanation: The first step in procurement management is clearly defining what goods or services the project requires. This helps guide the selection of vendors and the development of procurement contracts.
What is a “project schedule baseline”?
A) The expected project completion date
B) The approved version of the project’s schedule, including start and finish dates
C) A tool for tracking project performance
D) A method for assigning tasks to project resources
Answer: B) The approved version of the project’s schedule, including start and finish dates
Explanation: A project schedule baseline is the approved version of the project schedule, including all the planned start and finish dates. It serves as a reference to measure and compare the actual performance throughout the project.
What is the “Milestone Trend Analysis” (MTA) used for in project management?
A) To predict the future performance of a project based on milestones
B) To track project risks
C) To evaluate the quality of project deliverables
D) To measure the project’s financial status
Answer: A) To predict the future performance of a project based on milestones
Explanation: Milestone Trend Analysis (MTA) is a technique used to track the completion of project milestones over time. It helps forecast potential delays or issues by analyzing trends in milestone completion dates.
What is the purpose of the “closeout phase” in project management?
A) To evaluate the quality of project deliverables
B) To complete the final project tasks and hand over deliverables
C) To identify risks and develop mitigation plans
D) To negotiate with vendors and suppliers
Answer: B) To complete the final project tasks and hand over deliverables
Explanation: The closeout phase involves completing all remaining tasks, obtaining formal acceptance of the deliverables, closing contracts, and documenting lessons learned. It ensures that the project is formally finished.
What is a “budget at completion” (BAC)?
A) The total cost planned for the project, including all resources and expenses
B) The actual cost of completed work in the project
C) The estimated cost of the remaining work in the project
D) The cost of resources allocated to specific tasks
Answer: A) The total cost planned for the project, including all resources and expenses
Explanation: The Budget at Completion (BAC) is the total approved budget for the project, representing the cost of all planned work. It is used as a reference to measure project performance and compare against actual costs.
What is the key benefit of using the “Agile” methodology in project management?
A) Detailed upfront planning
B) Flexibility and iterative improvements throughout the project lifecycle
C) Strict adherence to project scope
D) Linear execution of tasks
Answer: B) Flexibility and iterative improvements throughout the project lifecycle
Explanation: Agile methodology emphasizes flexibility, adaptability, and iterative development. It focuses on continuous improvement and the ability to respond to changing project requirements, making it ideal for dynamic and uncertain environments.
What does “scope verification” involve?
A) Ensuring that all project risks are identified
B) Ensuring that the project scope aligns with the stakeholders’ expectations
C) Documenting changes to the project scope
D) Developing the project’s work breakdown structure
Answer: B) Ensuring that the project scope aligns with the stakeholders’ expectations
Explanation: Scope verification is the process of formalizing acceptance of the project deliverables by the stakeholders. It ensures that the work completed aligns with the agreed-upon scope and that expectations are met.
What is “resource smoothing” in project management?
A) Reducing the project budget to allocate resources more effectively
B) Adjusting task schedules to avoid resource over-allocations without changing the project duration
C) Allocating more resources to high-priority tasks
D) Developing a resource pool for project tasks
Answer: B) Adjusting task schedules to avoid resource over-allocations without changing the project duration
Explanation: Resource smoothing involves adjusting the project schedule to balance resource usage without changing the overall project duration. It aims to avoid overloading resources while maintaining the timeline.
What is the difference between “functional” and “projectized” organizational structures?
A) Functional structures give project managers more authority, while projectized structures give functional managers more control
B) In functional organizations, the project manager has limited authority, whereas in projectized organizations, the project manager has full control
C) Both structures give equal authority to the project manager and functional managers
D) There is no difference between the two organizational structures
Answer: B) In functional organizations, the project manager has limited authority, whereas in projectized organizations, the project manager has full control
Explanation: In functional organizations, project managers have limited authority and work under functional managers. In projectized organizations, the project manager has full authority over the project, with functional managers providing support.
What is the primary function of a project’s “communication management plan”?
A) To develop a budget and schedule
B) To outline how project information will be shared with stakeholders
C) To define the project scope and deliverables
D) To assess project risks and their impacts
Answer: B) To outline how project information will be shared with stakeholders
Explanation: The communication management plan outlines the methods, frequency, and channels for communicating project information to stakeholders, ensuring that everyone is well-informed and aligned.