CompTIA Project+ (PK0-005)Project Life Cycle PhasesMedium
A project manager is overseeing the development of a new online learning platform. During the project, the client requests a significant change to the user interface design that was not part of the original scope. This change will require additional development effort and extend the project timeline. What is the NEXT step the project manager should take after receiving this request?
- AEvaluate the impact of the change on project objectives, schedule, and cost.
- BUpdate the project schedule and budget to reflect the new requirements.
- CImplement the requested change immediately to satisfy the client.
- DReject the change request as it constitutes scope creep.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Evaluate the impact of the change on project objectives, schedule, and cost.
When a change request is received, the project manager must first evaluate its impact on the project's baselines (scope, schedule, cost, quality) before deciding how to proceed. Implementing it immediately (A) or rejecting it outright (D) without evaluation is usually not best practice. Updating documents (B) comes after impact analysis and approval.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Updating baselines is a step that occurs *after* the change has been evaluated and formally approved.
- C. Implementing changes without evaluation and approval can lead to uncontrolled scope creep and project failure.
- D. Rejecting a change outright without evaluation can lead to client dissatisfaction and missed opportunities; formal process should be followed.
Change Control Process
A formal process that ensures that all changes to a project's baselines are identified, documented, evaluated, approved or rejected, and managed.
- Changes must be formally requested and documented.
- Impact on scope, schedule, cost, and quality must be assessed.
- Approval by relevant stakeholders (often a Change Control Board) is required.
Memory trick: Change requests need impact analysis before they get a 'yes' or 'no'.