Project Management Professional (PMP)® Examination Content OutlinePeopleHard
A project manager is facing a situation where a key stakeholder consistently provides vague and conflicting requirements, causing rework and delays. The project manager needs to ensure this stakeholder's input becomes clear and actionable. What is the BEST approach for the project manager to take?
- ADocument the conflicting requirements and escalate the issue to the project sponsor for resolution.
- BReduce the stakeholder's involvement in requirements gathering to minimize conflicting input.
- CCollaborate with the stakeholder to jointly develop and sign off on a detailed requirements document and traceability matrix.
- DSchedule a series of one-on-one meetings with the stakeholder to clarify requirements and document every detail.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Collaborate with the stakeholder to jointly develop and sign off on a detailed requirements document and traceability matrix.
Collaborating with the stakeholder to jointly develop and sign off on a detailed requirements document and traceability matrix is the most effective approach. This ensures active engagement, creates shared ownership, and provides a clear, documented baseline that reduces ambiguity and conflicting input, thereby preventing rework.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While escalation might be necessary eventually, it bypasses the opportunity for the PM to directly resolve the issue through collaboration and clarification.
- B. Reducing stakeholder involvement can lead to unmet needs and future dissatisfaction, potentially jeopardizing project success.
- D. One-on-one meetings are good for clarification, but without a joint sign-off on a structured document, vagueness and conflicts can recur.
Collaborate with Stakeholders
Working actively and constructively with individuals or groups who have an interest in or impact on the project, to ensure their needs are understood and addressed.
- Involves regular communication and engagement.
- Aims to build consensus and manage expectations.
- Crucial for successful requirements gathering and issue resolution.
Memory trick: Joint documents make joint commitments.