PMP Question #363: Real Exam Question with Answer & Explanation

Question

A vendor informed the project manager that a critical resource will be on a long leave of absence. The project team reviewed the pending vendor deliverables and identified an alternative solution, but the solution will incur an additional cost. The project is currently on schedule and slightly under budget. What should the project manager do next?

Options

• ARequest a replacement resource
• BPerform a cost-benefit analysis
• CImplement risk responses
• DPerform Integrated Change Control

Explanation

Since a critical resource's absence necessitates an alternative solution with an additional cost, the project manager must perform Integrated Change Control to formally assess, approve, or reject the proposed change to scope, cost, or schedule.

Common mistakes.

• A. Requesting a replacement resource is a possible risk response or a part of the alternative solution, but it's not the overarching next step when an alternative solution with cost implications has already been identified and needs formal evaluation.
• B. Performing a cost-benefit analysis is a component of evaluating the proposed change (the alternative solution with additional cost), but it is a step within the broader Integrated Change Control process, not the overall next step.
• C. Implementing risk responses would be the action taken after the change is approved; the current situation requires evaluating and deciding on the change itself through a formal process.

Concept tested. Integrated Change Control process

Reference. https://www.pmi.org/pmbok-guide-standards/foundational/pmbok/change-management

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