CompTIA Project+ (PK0-005)Project Life Cycle PhasesHard
During the execution phase of a construction project, the project manager notices that the actual progress for several key activities is consistently falling behind the planned schedule. The project's critical path is at risk. What is the MOST appropriate action for the project manager to take FIRST?
- AAnalyze the root causes of the delays and identify corrective actions.
- BNotify the client immediately about the delays and request a schedule extension.
- CAssign more resources to the delayed activities to catch up.
- DUpdate the project schedule to reflect the new, delayed completion dates.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Analyze the root causes of the delays and identify corrective actions.
When deviations from the schedule occur, the first step is to understand why. Analyzing the root causes of the delays is crucial to identify effective corrective actions, rather than just reacting to the symptoms. This ensures that the chosen solution addresses the underlying problem.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Notifying the client is important, but a PM should first understand the problem and potential solutions.
- C. Assigning more resources (crashing) is a potential corrective action, but it should only be considered after understanding the root cause and evaluating its effectiveness and cost.
- D. Updating the schedule without understanding root causes risks repeating the problem and doesn't solve the underlying issue.
Root Cause Analysis (Schedule Control)
A technique used to identify the underlying reasons for deviations from the project schedule, enabling the project manager to implement effective corrective actions.
- Focuses on 'why' the problem occurred.
- Helps prevent recurrence of the issue.
- Essential for effective schedule control and corrective action planning.
Memory trick: When the schedule 'stumbles', first 'diagnose' the 'ailment' before giving medicine.