Identify the missing words in the following sentence. Dependencies in a complex portfolio environment [?] but if not managed effectively can represent a serious risk to delivery.

Question

Options

• Aare a relatively simple matter
• Bare a non-critical part of the project plan
• Care not always immediately obvious
• Ddo not need to be summarised in a portfolio dashboard report

• A
  8% (2)
• C
  88% (21)
• D
  4% (1)

Explanation

Option C is correct because in complex portfolio environments, dependencies between projects, workstreams, or workpackages are often hidden or emerge over time - they aren't always visible upfront, which is precisely what makes them risky if left unmanaged. The sentence structure requires a phrase that acknowledges their inherent nature before contrasting it with the risk of poor management ("but if not managed effectively..."), and "not always immediately obvious" creates that logical tension perfectly.

Why the distractors fail:

• A is wrong because the sentence's "but" clause signals a serious consequence - calling dependencies "simple" contradicts the gravity of delivery risk.
• B is wrong because labelling dependencies "non-critical" directly contradicts the warning that follows; portfolio management frameworks treat dependencies as high-priority items.
• D is wrong because it introduces a reporting concept (dashboard) that is irrelevant to the sentence's point, and good practice requires summarising dependencies in portfolio reporting.

Memory tip: Think of the word "hidden" - dependencies in large portfolios are often hidden mines. The correct answer is the only one that admits uncertainty ("not always immediately obvious"), which aligns with why they need active management in the first place.

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