Project Management Professional (PMP)® Examination Content OutlineProcessMedium
A project manager is leading a project to develop a new internal training program. During the planning phase, the team identifies that the content must comply with several industry-specific accreditation standards and internal HR policies. What is the project manager's PRIMARY responsibility regarding these compliance requirements?
- ADevelop a compliance management plan to identify, track, and ensure adherence to all relevant standards and policies.
- BInform stakeholders about the compliance requirements and request them to resolve any potential conflicts.
- CDelegate the compliance research and adherence to the training content creators.
- DProceed with content development, assuming the team's expertise will naturally ensure compliance.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Develop a compliance management plan to identify, track, and ensure adherence to all relevant standards and policies.
The primary responsibility of the project manager is to proactively plan for and manage compliance. This involves creating a dedicated compliance management plan that outlines how all relevant standards and policies will be identified, analyzed, and adhered to throughout the project lifecycle.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While communication is key, the project manager must first establish a plan to manage compliance, not just pass the burden to stakeholders.
- C. Delegating without a plan or oversight can lead to compliance failures, as it's a project manager's responsibility.
- D. Assuming compliance without explicit planning and verification is a high-risk approach and unprofessional.
Compliance Management Plan
A component of the Project Management Plan that describes how the project will identify, track, and ensure adherence to applicable regulations, laws, standards, and organizational policies.
- Proactive approach to compliance.
- Outlines roles, responsibilities, and processes for compliance.
- Helps avoid legal issues, fines, and reputational damage.
Memory trick: Compliance isn't accidental; it needs a plan to demand it.