A project manager determines that a critical path activity is going to be delayed. The team proposes a fallback plan that could get the project back on track; however, the plan would require an additional cost to an already tight budget.
What should the project manager do?
A. Use the existing budget for executing the fallback plan and update the baseline.
B. Add additional resources to the project to fast track certain activities and reduce delays.
C. Evaluate the fallback plan proposed by the team and submit a change request, if required.
D. Communicate the delay to stakeholders and maintain the existing budget baseline.
Explanation:
When faced with a delay in a critical path activity, it is prudent for the project manager to thoroughly evaluate the proposed fallback plan, considering its impact on the project’s scope, time, cost, and quality. If the fallback plan is viable and justifies the additional cost, the project manager should proceed with submitting a change request. This process involves documenting the proposed changes, assessing the benefits and risks, and seeking approval from the project sponsor or change control board. The change request should detail the reasons for the deviation from the original plan, the expected outcomes, and the justification for the additional expenditure. This approach ensures that any alterations to the project are well-considered, transparent, and formally approved, maintaining the integrity of the project management process123.
Reference: (Project Management Institute. (2017). A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) C Sixth Edition. Newtown Square, PA: Author; Project Management Institute. (2013). Practice Standard for Project Risk Management. Newtown Square, PA: Author; Project Management Institute. (2019). PMI Standard for Project Management. Newtown Square, PA: Author).