Exam PMP topic 1 question 77 discussion

Answer : A A. Provide feedback to the team using project performance evaluations. - Feedback will help others to grow B. Include buffer time in the schedule to absorb future delays. - This won't help as the team members will be confortable to delay the deliverables C. Escalate the impact on the schedule to the project sponsor. - Escalate to the project sponsor should not be first action taken by PM D. Create a change request to extend the project's duration and costs. - this will not help with the project in the long run

A is my choice providing feedback will help the team members without experience, only escalate if things do not change after the evaluation. This reflects a people-focused leadership style on the part of the PM

(Option B) can help manage future delays, it doesn't address the root cause of the team's challenges.

As per the PMBOK Guide - project management principles - the project manager's role is to support the team while maintaining the schedule. Including buffer time in the schedule is a proactive measure that can recognize delays without allowing the team to become too comfortable with missed deadlines. It also ensures that future delays are mitigated. Answer is B.

They've been delayed TWICE, no need for a buffer in the schedule, option A is the correct option IMHO

"Low priority" is the key. Since the project has low priority and involves inexperienced team members, the project manager should prioritize the team's learning and growth. While buffers can be useful, addressing repeated deadline extensions with scheduling changes isn't a sustainable solution. It doesn't tackle the root cause of the delays (lack of experience)

Including buffer time, also known as contingency or slack, in the project schedule is a proactive risk management approach. It acknowledges the potential for unforeseen delays and allows the team some flexibility without immediately impacting the project timeline. While feedback (Option A) and performance evaluations are important for ongoing improvement, they may not directly address the immediate need for schedule adjustments due to the team's lack of formal project experience.

A low-priority project with inexperienced team members - going with B. If I were the product owner/sponsor, I'd expect delays.

B. Include buffer time in the schedule to absorb future delays. Option B involves a proactive approach by including buffer time in the schedule. This can help accommodate potential delays and uncertainties that may arise during the project. The inclusion of buffers can provide flexibility without immediately resorting to deadline extensions. Options C and D involve escalation and formal changes to the project plan, which may not be necessary at this stage. It's advisable for the project manager to explore options that allow for flexibility within the existing project plan before escalating to higher levels or formally changing project parameters. Providing feedback (Option A) is essential, but it may not directly address the challenge of meeting deadlines. In contrast, including buffers in the schedule is a more preventative measure to handle uncertainties without affecting the project's formal timeline.

buffer time

A The team is far into execution and therefore inappropriate to introduce buffers at this point, they have used-up two extensions already. Feedback on performance evaluations will help them take the right course of action towards improving.

Option B: "Include buffer time in the schedule to absorb future delays." Here's why this option aligns with PMBOK principles: Risk Management: PMBOK emphasizes the importance of proactive risk management. By including buffer time (often referred to as "contingency") in the schedule, you are effectively managing the risk of potential delays due to the inexperience of the team members. This aligns with PMBOK's risk management approach. Schedule Management: PMBOK's Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) highlights the significance of effective schedule management. Including buffer time is a recognized scheduling technique to account for uncertainties and risks. Resource Constraints: Given that this is a low-priority project with inexperienced team members, it's crucial to work within the project's constraints. Including buffer time can be a practical approach without significantly impacting resource availability or project priorities.

I believe including more buffer time is correct. B

B. Include buffer time in the schedule to absorb future delays. Here's why: Low-priority project: Since the project is low-priority, it means there may be some flexibility in the timeline, and stakeholders might be more understanding of potential delays. New team members with no previous formal project experience: It's natural for new team members to take time to get up to speed and adjust to the project's demands. The project manager should consider this when setting expectations. Requested deadline extensions: The fact that the team has already requested deadline extensions indicates that they are facing challenges in meeting the original schedule. Ignoring this could lead to more issues and unnecessary pressure on the team.

A. Provide feedback to the team using project performance evaluations

I think A

The project manager should include buffer time in the project schedule to absorb future delays. Given that the team is new to project management, it's possible that they are struggling with adapting to the project environment, which can cause delays in meeting project deadlines. Including buffer time in the schedule will provide some flexibility to absorb these potential delays, while also reducing the need for the team to request additional deadline extensions.