Project Management Professional (PMP)® Examination Content OutlineProcessMedium
A project manager is leading a large-scale infrastructure project that involves multiple municipalities and government agencies. During the execution phase, a key government agency introduces a new environmental regulation that was not anticipated during the planning phase. This regulation could significantly impact the project's timeline and budget. What should the project manager do FIRST?
- AImmediately implement changes to comply with the new regulation to avoid penalties.
- BSubmit a change request to formally document the new regulation and its required adjustments.
- CAssess the impact of the new regulation on the project's scope, schedule, cost, and quality.
- DInform the project sponsor and key stakeholders about the new regulation and its potential implications.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Assess the impact of the new regulation on the project's scope, schedule, cost, and quality.
When an unanticipated regulation arises, the project manager's first step is to assess its impact. This assessment provides the necessary information to inform stakeholders and develop appropriate change requests, ensuring a data-driven approach to compliance.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Implementing changes without a proper assessment could lead to inefficient solutions or unintended consequences. This action is premature.
- B. A change request requires a clear understanding of what needs to be changed and why, which comes from the impact assessment.
- D. While informing stakeholders is important, it should follow an initial assessment to provide them with accurate information about the impact.
Compliance Impact Assessment
The process of evaluating how new or changed regulations, standards, or policies affect a project's objectives, constraints, and deliverables.
- Performed when new compliance requirements emerge.
- Identifies potential risks, opportunities, and necessary adjustments.
- Informs subsequent actions like change requests or stakeholder communication.
Memory trick: New rules appear, first you must inspect, then inform and act to protect.