Project Management Professional (PMP)® Examination Content OutlineProcessMedium
A project manager is leading a project to develop a new cloud-based data analytics platform. The project is nearing completion, and the team has successfully delivered all planned features. However, the initial business case for the project highlighted a target of a 15% reduction in operational reporting time, which has not yet been formally verified by the business unit. What should the project manager do NEXT?
- ADocument the unverified benefit as a lesson learned for future projects.
- BExtend the project duration to allow the business unit more time to verify the benefit.
- CProceed with the final project closure activities, as all features are delivered.
- DConduct a benefits realization review with the business unit to verify the achievement of the 15% reduction target.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Conduct a benefits realization review with the business unit to verify the achievement of the 15% reduction target.
Project success is not solely about delivering features; it's also about realizing the intended benefits. Before final closure, especially if a specific benefit was targeted, the project manager should facilitate a benefits realization review to confirm if the project has achieved its strategic objectives and delivered the expected value.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Documenting as a lesson learned is a good practice, but it doesn't address the immediate need to verify the benefit for the current project.
- B. Extending the project duration solely for benefit verification might not be necessary; a dedicated review is more appropriate than delaying project closure.
- C. Closing the project without verifying benefits means the project's true success and value delivered remain unconfirmed.
Benefits Realization Review
A formal assessment conducted to determine if the expected benefits outlined in the business case or benefits management plan have been achieved by the project's deliverables.
- Often conducted post-project or at key milestones.
- Measures the actual value delivered.
- Involves business stakeholders and project team.
Memory trick: Before you close, 'SEE' if the benefits are true.