Project Management Professional (PMP)® Examination Content OutlineProcessMedium
A project manager is overseeing a project to develop a new interactive training module. During the execution phase, the instructional design team reports that the subject matter expert (SME) critical for content validation is consistently unavailable and unresponsive to requests for feedback. This is causing significant delays in content finalization. What should the project manager do FIRST?
- AAttempt to contact the SME directly to understand their availability issues and explore potential solutions.
- BRevise the project schedule to account for the delays caused by the SME's unavailability.
- CReplace the unresponsive SME with an alternative subject matter expert.
- DEscalate the issue to the project sponsor, requesting intervention with the SME's functional manager.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Attempt to contact the SME directly to understand their availability issues and explore potential solutions.
Before escalating or taking drastic measures, the project manager should always attempt to resolve issues directly with the involved party. Understanding the SME's challenges could lead to a quick resolution, an alternative arrangement, or at least provide concrete information for an informed escalation if direct resolution fails.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Revising the schedule addresses the symptom, not the root cause, and does not resolve the underlying issue of SME unavailability.
- C. Replacing a critical SME is a drastic step, potentially introducing new risks and delays, and should only be considered after direct attempts to resolve the issue.
- D. Escalation is a valid step if direct communication fails, but it should not be the first action.
Impediment Resolution
The process of identifying and actively working to remove any obstacles, blockers, or issues that hinder the progress or effectiveness of the project team.
- Prioritizes direct communication.
- Aims for proactive problem-solving.
- Involves understanding root causes.
Memory trick: When an expert is 'MISSING', first 'ASK' why.