Project Management Professional (PMP)® Examination Content OutlinePeopleMedium
A project manager observes that a project team is consistently missing minor deadlines and experiencing low morale, despite possessing all necessary technical skills. The team members frequently express frustration with each other's work habits and communication styles. What is the MOST effective first step the project manager should take to address this situation?
- AProvide additional technical training to improve overall team efficiency and reduce errors.
- BReassign team members to different tasks based on their individual strengths to reduce conflict.
- CFacilitate a team workshop to establish clear communication protocols and behavioral expectations.
- DImplement a stricter deadline enforcement policy and hold individual performance reviews.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Facilitate a team workshop to establish clear communication protocols and behavioral expectations.
The core issue appears to be related to team dynamics, communication, and expectations rather than technical skill deficits or individual performance. Establishing ground rules collaboratively addresses these underlying problems, fostering a more productive environment.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The problem states the team has all necessary technical skills, so additional technical training would not address the observed low morale and communication issues.
- B. While reassigning tasks might temporarily alleviate some friction, it does not resolve the underlying issues of communication and behavioral expectations within the team.
- D. This approach addresses symptoms (missing deadlines) but not the root cause of low morale and interpersonal friction.
Define Team Ground Rules
Team ground rules are explicit agreements established by the team to guide behavior, communication, and decision-making within the project. They foster a respectful and productive working environment.
- Developed collaboratively by the team.
- Cover aspects like communication, conflict resolution, meeting etiquette, and decision-making.
- Promote shared understanding and accountability.
Memory trick: When the team's gears grind, first define the 'how'.