Project Management Professional (PMP)® Examination Content OutlinePeopleEasy
A project manager is overseeing a project involving a newly formed team. The team members are highly skilled but come from different functional departments and have varying work styles and expectations. The project manager wants to quickly establish a cohesive and productive working environment. What is the MOST effective initial step?
- AFacilitate a team chartering session to collaboratively define team values, communication norms, and decision-making processes.
- BDevelop a detailed work breakdown structure (WBS) to clearly define individual tasks and responsibilities.
- CAssign a team leader from each functional department to oversee their respective members.
- DOrganize a social outing for the team to build personal relationships outside of work.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Facilitate a team chartering session to collaboratively define team values, communication norms, and decision-making processes.
For a newly formed, diverse team, collaboratively defining ground rules and expectations through a team chartering session is crucial. It builds shared understanding, fosters early cohesion, and addresses varying work styles and expectations directly.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While a WBS is important, it focuses on 'what' needs to be done, not 'how' the team will work together effectively to overcome diverse work styles.
- C. This reinforces functional silos rather than promoting cross-functional cohesion, which is the stated goal.
- D. Social outings can help build rapport, but they don't directly establish the professional working norms and processes needed for productivity.
Define Team Ground Rules (Team Charter)
Collaboratively establishing shared expectations for team behavior, communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution to create a productive and respectful working environment.
- Ensures common understanding and alignment.
- Reduces conflict and misunderstandings.
- Fosters psychological safety and trust.
Memory trick: A new team needs a map and rules for their shared journey.