PMP · Question #478
A project manager is assigned to a new project to deliver a product at the end of the year. The project manager was informed by the vendor that a core component could not be shipped on time, which…
The correct answer is D. Review and update the issue log and determine if any alternative components can be offered. When a core component is delayed, the project manager should update the issue log and proactively investigate alternative components or solutions to mitigate the schedule impact.
Question
A project manager is assigned to a new project to deliver a product at the end of the year. The project manager was informed by the vendor that a core component could not be shipped on time, which will impact the schedule. What should project manager to do next to minimize the impact on the project?
Options
- ASchedule a meeting with all stakeholders to extend the project deadline
- BReplace the vendor with a new vendor who can offer the component on time
- CAdd an item to the next status review to make stakeholders aware of the vendor issue
- DReview and update the issue log and determine if any alternative components can be offered
How the community answered
(25 responses)- A4% (1)
- B12% (3)
- C8% (2)
- D76% (19)
Why each option
When a core component is delayed, the project manager should update the issue log and proactively investigate alternative components or solutions to mitigate the schedule impact.
Scheduling a meeting to extend the deadline is premature; the project manager must first investigate all possible alternatives and understand the full impact before discussing schedule changes.
A delayed core component represents a critical issue impacting the project schedule. The project manager's immediate next step is to document this in the issue log and then proactively explore mitigation strategies, such as investigating alternative components from other suppliers or exploring workarounds, to minimize the impact on the project before considering more drastic actions.
Concept tested: Issue management and risk mitigation
Topics
Community Discussion
4
Ingrid P.Jan 6, 2026D is correct. The PMBOK process here is straightforward: log the issue first, then analyze alternatives. I made a card for this one with the cue "vendor delay, what next" and the answer "issue log + evaluate alternatives" because that combo keeps coming up on delay scenarios.
Brenda K.Jan 7, 2026Good call on D but watch your clock here because the PMBOK process questions are 30 second quick wins if you know the sequence, so dont overthink the delay scenarios or youll burn time you need for the earned value math later.
Brenda K.Jan 3, 2026I first leaned toward C because keeping stakeholders in the loop sounds responsible, but that is a passive move and the clock is already burning. D is the grab because reviewing the issue log and hunting for alternative components is the immediate mitigation action the exam wants. A is a time sink because extending the deadline is premature before you even explore workarounds. B is a trap too, since swapping vendors mid-stream eats weeks you do not have. Flag this one as a quick win: any stem with a vendor delay plus "minimize impact" points straight to issue log plus alternatives.
Nina C.Jan 8, 2026D is correct because you need to log the issue first and then look for solutions before escalating. A is too drastic since the deadline is mentioned as firm, and B is a nuclear option that would cause more delays than it solves. C just communicates the problem without trying to fix it. I had almost this exact scenario on my exam last month and the key was recognizing that you review the issue log and explore alternatives before bothering stakeholders. Coming from teaching, I kept wanting to jump to the communication answer, but PMP wants you to solve problems before escalating them.