Project Management Professional (PMP)® Examination Content OutlineProcessMedium
A project manager is overseeing a project to upgrade an organization's IT infrastructure. During the execution phase, a critical server component fails unexpectedly, halting progress on several key tasks. The project manager identifies that the server failure is due to a known bug in its operating system that was not patched due to a miscommunication between the IT operations team and the project's technical lead. What should the project manager do FIRST to address this impediment?
- ADocument the server failure and assign blame to the responsible individuals to prevent future occurrences.
- BFacilitate communication between the IT operations team and the technical lead to resolve the miscommunication and apply the necessary patch or workaround.
- CUpdate the project schedule to reflect the delay and inform stakeholders about the impact.
- DImmediately purchase and install a new server component to restore functionality.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Facilitate communication between the IT operations team and the technical lead to resolve the miscommunication and apply the necessary patch or workaround.
The root cause of the impediment is a miscommunication leading to the unpatched bug. Addressing this communication breakdown and applying the patch/workaround directly resolves the immediate blocker, allowing the project to resume. Other options are either reactive, punitive, or premature.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Assigning blame is counterproductive and doesn't solve the immediate problem. Focus should be on resolution, not blame.
- C. Updating the schedule and informing stakeholders are important steps but should follow the immediate action taken to resolve the impediment. This is not the FIRST action to remove the blocker.
- D. Purchasing a new component might be a solution, but it's reactive and doesn't address the root cause (miscommunication/unpatched bug). A patch or workaround might be faster and cheaper.
Impediment Resolution
The process of identifying and actively removing obstacles or blockers that hinder a project team's progress.
- Focuses on addressing the root cause of the impediment.
- Often involves facilitating communication and collaboration.
- Aims to restore progress and maintain project momentum.
Memory trick: Blocker in sight? Communicate, solve, make it right!