Project management total course
Words that describe analyticals?
-Critical -Indecisive -Stuffy -Picky -Moralistic -Industrious -Persistent -Serious -Orderly -Expecting
What questions are addressed with a project forecast?
-How long will it take to finish the project based on how things are going? -How much more money will be needed to complete the project?
How much of communication is through tone and how words are said?
35%
How much of communication is body language?
58%
How much of communication is spoken content?
7%
A(n) _____ refers to a product or service, such as a technical report, a training session, a piece of hardware, or a segment of software code, produced or provided as part of a project. a. deliverable b. input c. system d. resource
A A deliverable is a product or service, such as a technical report, a training session, a piece of hardware, or a segment of software code, produced or provided as part of a project
In a _____organizational structure, program managers, rather than functional managers or vice presidents, report to the CEO. Their staffs have a variety of skills needed to complete all required tasks within their programs. a. project b. symbolic c. matrix d. functional
A A project organizational structure also is hierarchical, but instead of functional managers or vice presidents reporting to the CEO, program managers report to the CEO.
Which of the following is true of the agile approach to software development? a. In the agile method, requirements and solutions evolve through collaboration. c. Agile is a predictive model of software development. b. An agile approach sets scope goals, but leaves time and cost goals flexible. d. In the agile approach, requirements must be clearly expressed early in the life cycle.
A Agile means using a method based on iterative and incremental development, in which requirements and solutions evolve through collaboration.
_____ should result in improvements in project performance. a. Corrective actions c. Preventive actions b. Defect repairs d. Product acceptance plans
A Corrective actions should result in improvements in project performance
In the development phase of the project life cycle: a. the project team creates more detailed project plans, a more accurate cost estimate, and a more thorough WBS. b. the project team delivers the required work, and provides performance reports to stakeholders. c. managers develop a business case, which describes the need for the project and basic underlying concepts. d. managers prepare a preliminary or rough cost estimate for the required work.
A In the development phase, the project team creates more detailed project management plans, a more accurate cost estimate, and a more thorough WBS.
Which of the following is true of the project life cycle? a. In the early phases of a project life cycle, resource needs are usually lowest. b. In the later phases of the project life cycle, the level of uncertainty is usually the highest. c. It is much more expensive to make major changes to a project during the earlier phases than the latter phases. d. More resources are usually needed during the initial phases of a project than during the middle or final phases.
A In the early phases of a project life cycle, resource needs are usually lowest and the level of uncertainty is highest.
_____ refers to the degree to employees identify with the organization as a whole, rather than with their types of job or profession. a. Member identity b. People focus c. Group emphasis d. Unit integration
A Member identity refers to the degree to employees identify with the organization as a whole, rather than with their types of job or profession.
Project managers have the least amount of authority in a pure _____ organizational structure. a. functional b. project c. matrix d. circular
A Project managers have the most authority in a pure project organizational structure and the least amount of authority in a pure functional organizational structure.
The first two traditional project phases (concept and development) focus on planning, and are often referred to as _____. a. project feasibility b. project acquisition c. project implementation d. project close-out
A The first two traditional project phases (concept and development) focus on planning, and are often referred to as project feasibility.
The majority of time on a project is usually spent on _____, as is most of the project's budget. a. execution c. closing b. planning d. monitoring and controlling
A The majority of time on a project is usually spent on execution, as is most of the project's budget.
The _____ perspective on organizations assumes that organizations are coalitions composed of varied individuals and interest groups. a. political frame b. symbolic frame c. structural frame d. human resources frame
A The political frame addresses organizational and personal politics. Politics in organizations take the form of competition among groups or individuals for power and leadership. The political frame assumes that organizations are coalitions composed of varied individuals and interest groups.
The _____ perspective of an organization focuses on different groups' roles and responsibilities in order to meet the goals and policies set by top management. a. structural frame b. human resources frame c. political frame d. symbolic frame
A The structural frame deals with how the organization is structured (usually depicted in an organizational chart) and focuses on different groups' roles and responsibilities to meet the goals and policies set by top management. This frame is very rational and focuses on coordination and control.
Who can assess i communication within a project is working?
A Facilitator
What is a communication management plan?
A document that guides project communication
What is an inappropriate medium for addressing negative behavior?
A meeting is not appropriate to address negative behavior
Which of the following is a difference between projects and operations?
A project is "a temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result." Operations, on the other hand, is work done in organizations to sustain the business.
What is the subprocess that goes along with the executing process of project human resource management?
Acquiring project team
Which of the following questions reflect the strategic goals of project portfolio management?
Are we investing in the right areas?
33. Which of the following best describes a kill point in the project life cycle? a. The period of time given to managers during the feasibility phases to decide on the cost, quality, and time constraints for the project b. A review of the status of a project at each phase of development to determine if it should be continued, redirected, or terminated c. The point of time in the project lifecycle after which it is impossible to terminate a running project d. The final submission of the project deliverables after which the project is terminated
B A management review should occur after each phase to evaluate progress, potential success, and continued compatibility with organizational goals.These management reviews, called phase exits or kill points, are very important for keeping projects on track and determining if they should be continued, redirected, or terminated.
In organizational culture, control refers to _____. a. the degree to which the organization monitors and responds to changes in the external environment b. the degree to which rules, policies, and direct supervision are used to oversee employee behavior c. the degree to which management focuses on outcomes rather than on techniques and processes used to achieve results d. the degree to which employees are encouraged to be aggressive, innovative, and risk seeking
B Control refers to the degree to which rules, policies, and direct supervision are used to oversee and control employee behavior.
_____ refers to the degree to which the organization monitors and responds to changes in the external environment. a. Means-ends orientation b. Open-systems focus c. Conflict tolerance d. Risk tolerance
B Open-systems focus refers to the degree to which the organization monitors and responds to changes in the external environment
Which of the following best describes outsourcing? a. An organization selling its products in a market outside its domestic market b. An organization's acquisition of goods and services from an outside source c. An organization setting up manufacturing and retailing facilities in a new country d. An organization's use of virtual teams with employees located in different countries
B Outsourcing is an organization's acquisition of goods and services from an outside source. The term offshoring is sometimes used to describe outsourcing from another country
Project managers have the most authority in a pure _____ organizational structure. a. functional b. project c. matrix d. circular
B Project managers have the most authority in a pure project organizational structure and the least amount of authority in a pure functional organizational structure.
The _____ frame of an organization focuses on providing harmony between the needs of the organization and the needs of people. a. structural b. human resources c. political d. symbolic
B The human resources (HR) frame focuses on producing harmony between the needs of the organization and the needs of people. It recognizes that mismatches can occur between the needs of the organization and those of individuals and groups, and works to resolve any potential problems.
In the _____ model, developers use a model to generate functional requirements and physical design specifications simultaneously. a. RAD life cycle b. prototyping life cycle c. spiral life cycle d. incremental build life cycle
B The prototyping life cycle model is used for developing software prototypes to clarify user requirements for operational software. It requires heavy user involvement, and developers use a model to generate functional requirements and physical design specifications simultaneously. This approach is often used in systems that involve a great deal of user interface design, such as website projects.
Grey's Infotech sells customized hardware and software solutions for businesses. The salespeople for Grey's have a strict dress code when meeting clients. They are required to wear dark business suits, in order to convey the company's dedication to quality. The meaning conveyed to the clients' through the salespeople's clothing is part of the _____ frame of the organization. a. political b. symbolic c. structural d. human resources
B The symbolic frame focuses on symbols and meanings. In this frame, the most important aspect of any event in an organization is not what actually happened, but what it means. The symbolic frame also relates to the company's culture. How do people dress? How many hours do they work?How do they run meetings?
In the _____ phase, the project team creates a definitive or very accurate cost estimate, delivers the required work, and provides performance reports to stakeholders. a. development b. implementation c. concept d. close-out
B The third phase of the traditional project life cycle is implementation. In this phase, the project team creates a definitive or very accurate cost estimate, delivers the required work, and provides performance reports to stakeholders.
The _____ model of a systems development life cycle assumes that requirements will remain stable after they are defined. a. spiral life cycle b. waterfall life cycle c. incremental build life cycle d. RAD life cycle
B The waterfall life cycle model has well-defined, linear stages of systems analysis, design, construction, testing, and support. This life cycle model assumes that requirements will remain stable after they are defined.
Projects must operate in a broad organizational environment, and project managers need to consider projects within the greater organizational context. _____ describes this holistic view of carrying out projects within the context of the organization. a. Linear analysis b. Systems thinking c. Reductionism d. The silo approach
B To handle complex situations effectively, project managers need to take a holistic view of a project and understand how it relates to the larger organization. Systems thinking describes this holistic view of carrying out projects within the context of the organization.
Which of the following is a disadvantage of virtual teams as compared to traditional teams? a. Increased costs for office space and support c. Limited flexibility in team working hours b. Reduced opportunities for informal transfer of information d. Reduced dependence on technology and processes for accomplishing work
B Virtual teams reduce the ability of team members to network and transfer information informally.
What is one of the guidelines of having meetings?
Before conducting a meeting it should be determined if a meeting can be avoided
In a _____ organizational structure, personnel often report to both a functional manager and one or more project managers. a. project b. symbolic c. matrix d. functional
C A matrix organizational structure represents the middle ground between functional and project structures. Personnel often report both to a functional manager and one or more project managers.
_____ involves coordinating all planning efforts to create a consistent, coherent document. a. Developing the project charter b. Developing the preliminary project scope statement c. Developing the project management plan d. Developing the organizational process assets updates
C Developing the project management plan involves coordinating all planning efforts to create a consistent, coherent document—the project management plan.
Which of the following is true of a matrix organizational structure? a. In a matrix organizational structure, employees are organized into departments according to their skills, and there is little interaction between employees from different departments. b. Project managers in matrix organizations have staff from only a single functional area working on their projects. c. In a strong matrix organizational structure, the project manager controls the project budget and has moderate to high authority. d. A matrix organizational structure is hierarchical, but instead of functional managers reporting to the CEO, program managers report to the CEO.
C In a strong matrix organizational structure, the project manager controls the project budget and has moderate to high authority.
A preliminary or rough cost estimate is developed in the _____ phase of the project life cycle, and an overview of the work involved is created. a. implementation b. acquisition c. concept d. close-out
C In the concept phase of a project, managers usually develop some type of business case, which describes the need for the project and basic underlying concepts. A preliminary or rough cost estimate is developed in this first phase, and an overview of the required work is created
Which of the following is true of virtual teams? a. It is easier for a virtual team to build relationships and trust. b. Negative incentives do not impact virtual team members. c. It is important to select team members carefully. d. As they never meet, virtual teams do not have conflicts.
C It is important to select team members carefully and to form a team in which all roles are covered. All virtual team members must also understand their roles on the team.
In organizational culture, means-end orientation refers to _____. a. the degree to which the organization monitors and responds to changes in the external environment b. the degree to which rules, policies, and direct supervision are used to oversee and control employee behavior c. the degree to which management focuses on outcomes rather than on techniques and processes used to achieve results d. the degree to which employees are encouraged to be aggressive, innovative, and risk seeking
C Means-ends orientation refers to the degree to which management focuses on outcomes rather than on techniques and processes used to achieve results.
_____ refers to a set of shared assumptions, values, and behaviors that characterize the functioning of an organization. a. Chain of command b. Line of control c. Organizational culture d. Organizational structure
C Organizational culture is a set of shared assumptions, values, and behaviors that characterize the functioning of an organization. It often includes elements of the four frames
In organizational culture, people focus refers to _____. a. the degree to which the organization monitors and responds to changes in the external environment b. the degree to which rules, policies, and direct supervision are used to oversee and control employee behavior c. the degree to which management 's decisions take into account the effect of outcomes on employees within the organization d. the degree to which employees are encouraged to be aggressive, innovative, and risk seeking
C People focus refers to the degree to which management's decisions take into account the effect of outcomes on people within the organization.
The _____ model uses an approach in which developers work with an evolving prototype, using tools such as computer-aided software engineering, joint requirements planning, and joint application design to facilitate rapid prototyping and code generation. a. incremental build life cycle b. waterfall life cycle c. RAD life cycle d. spiral life cycle
C The RAD life cycle model uses an approach in which developers work with an evolving prototype. This life cycle model also requires heavy user involvement and helps produce systems quickly without sacrificing quality.
The _____ characteristic of organizational culture describes the degree to which management's decisions take into account the effect of outcomes on people within the organization. a. member identity b. group emphasis c. people focus d. unit integration
C The people focus characteristic of organizational culture describes the degree to which management's decisions take into account the effect of outcomes on people within the organization.Good project managers often balance the needs of individuals and the organization
What is the key to advancing you career as an IT professional?
Communication skills
_____ refers to the degree to which rules, policies, and direct supervision are used to oversee employee behavior.
Control
In which of the following areas of management is payback analysis most likely to be used?
Cost
In Rizzati Corp, vice presidents in departments such as engineering, manufacturing, IT, and human resources report directly to the chief executive officer and undertake their tasks independently of each other. The staffs of these departments have specialized skills in their respective disciplines.Rizatti Corp can be said to have a _____ organizational structure. a. project b. symbolic c. matrix d. functional
D A functional organizational structure is the hierarchy most people think of when picturing an organizational chart. Functional managers or vice presidents in specialties such as engineering, manufacturing, IT, and human resources report to the chief executive officer (CEO).
_____ are an example of external stakeholders for an organization. a. Top managers b. Functional managers c. Employees d. Competitors
D External project stakeholders include the project 's customers (if they are external to the organization), competitors, suppliers, and other external groups potentially involved in the project or affected by it, such as government officials or concerned citizens.
_____ refers to a problem-solving approach that requires defining the scope of a system, dividing it into its components, and then identifying and evaluating its problems, opportunities, constraints, and needs. a. Linear programming c. Principal component analysis b. Independent component analysis d. Systems analysis
D Systems analysis is a problem-solving approach that requires defining the scope of the system, dividing it into components, and then identifying and evaluating its problems, opportunities, constraints, and needs.
The _____ model of a systems development life cycle provides for progressive development of operational software, with each release providing added capabilities. a. spiral life cycle b. RAD life cycle c. waterfall life cycle d. incremental build life cycle
D The incremental build life cycle model provides for progressive development of operational software, with each release providing added capabilities.
The symbolic perspective of an organization: a. focuses on different groups' roles and responsibilities to meet the goals and policies set by top management. b. views the organization as coalitions composed of varied individuals and interest groups. c. focuses on providing harmony between the needs of the organization and the needs of people. d. focuses on the meanings of the culture, language, traditions, and image of the organization.
D The symbolic frame focuses on symbols and meanings. In this frame, the most important aspect of any event in an organization is not what actually happened, but what it means.
_____refers to the degree to which departments within an organization are encouraged to coordinate with each other. a. Member identity b. People focus c. Group emphasis d. Unit integration
D Unit integration refers to the degree to which units or departments within an organization are encouraged to coordinate with each other.
What medium of communication is good for communicating routine info?
Which are the deficiency needs in Maslow's hierarchy?
Esteem, love, safety, physiological
Which of the following refers to a set of principles that guides decision making based on personal values of what is considered right and wrong?
Ethics
Project integration management must occur just within the context of a particular project
FALSE
The team members of a virtual team are all of the same nationality
FALSE A virtual team is a group of people who work together despite time and space boundaries using communication technologies. Team members might all work for the same company in the same country, or they might include employees as well as independent consultants, suppliers, or even volunteers providing their expertise from around the globe.
Internal stakeholders include groups affected by the project such as government officials or concerned citizens
FALSE External project stakeholders include the project 's customers (if they are external to the organization), competitors, suppliers, and other external groups potentially involved in the project or affected by it, such as government officials or concerned citizens.
It is much more expensive to make major changes to a project during the earlier phases.
FALSE In early phases of a project life cycle, resource needs are usually lowest and the level of uncertainty is highest. It is much more expensive to make major changes to a project during latter phases.
An organizational culture with strong unit integration makes the project manager's job more difficult.
FALSE Most project managers strive for strong unit integration to deliver a successful product, service, or result. An organizational culture with strong unit integration makes the project manager 's job easier.
Project work is most successful in an organizational culture where activities are organized around individuals.
FALSE Project work is most successful in organizations in which work activities are organized around groups or teams, rather than individuals. An organizational culture that emphasizes group work is best for managing projects.
The last phase of the traditional project life cycle is the implementation phase.
FALSE The last phase of the traditional project life cycle is the close-out phase.In it, all of the work is completed, and customers should accept the entire project.
The nature of hardware development projects is more diverse than software-oriented projects.
FALSE The nature of software development projects is even more diverse than hardware-oriented projects. A software development project might include creating a simple, stand-alone Microsoft Excel or Access application, or a sophisticated, global e-commerce system that uses state-of-the-art programming languages and runs on multiple platforms.
Leadership style has no impact on the success of virtual teams
FALSE The project manager's leadership style affects all teams, especially virtual ones.
The best way to sustain a project is to withhold the required money, human resources, and visibility for the project.
FALSE- The best way to kill a project is to withhold the required money, human resources, and visibility.
Project managers should lead projects in isolation in order to truly serve the needs of the organization.
FALSE-Even though projects are temporary and intended to provide a unique product or service, you cannot run projects in isolation. If project managers lead projects in isolation, it is unlikely that they will ever truly serve the needs of the organization.
Most people believe that the underlying causes of many companies' problems can be traced to its organizational structure.
FALSE-Organizational culture is very powerful, and many people believe the underlying causes of many companies ' problems are not in the organizational structure or staff; they are in the culture.
Systems analysis addresses the business, technological, and organizational issues associated with creating, maintaining, and modifying a system.
FALSE-Systems management addresses the business, technological, and organizational issues associated with creating, maintaining,and modifying a system.
When you separate business and organizational issues from project management planning, you do a better job of ensuring project success
FALSE-When you integrate business and organizational issues into project management planning and look at projects as a series of interrelated phases, you do a better job of ensuring project success.
Communication becomes simpler when you increase the number of team members.
False
Geographic location and cultural background have no impact on communications.
False
Improving an organization's ability to communication is an easy process.
False
The project summary report is a summary of all the lessons-learned reports.
False
The stakeholder management plan is always a formal document.
False
Project stakeholder management has resonances with project cost management and project time management.
False, unique activities are required to perform good stakeholder management
Which of the following tools are most likely to be used in project time management?
Gantt charts
_____ refers to the degree to which work activities are organized around teams, rather than individuals.
Group emphasis
Joe is a project manager in an IT company and has over the years, gained substantial knowledge in his area of work. However, while managing his team, he often loses his temper. In addition, he fails to be an active listener when his team members approach him with work related challenges. In which of the following areas does Joe need to develop his skills in?
Human relations skills
A major element of good practice concerns _____ , which addresses the authority and control for key IT activities in organizations, including IT infrastructure, IT use, and project management.
IT governance
Why is it important to provide different methods of communication?
Information is rarely interpreted correctly so its important to communicated in written words, visuals, videos, meetings, and an environment that promotes open dialogue.
Which of the following statements is true of project management?
It does not guarantee successes for all projects.
What is true of a project communication plan?
It should be a part of the overall project management plan
Which of the following tools can best help in efficient communication management?
Kick-off meetings
Doctors who have been co-opted to actively participate in a project related to using information technology for chronic health problems would be examples of _____ stakeholders.
Leading
Which of the following types of tools is usually recommended for small projects and single users?
Low-end
What kind of communication would you implement for assessing the commitment of project stakeholders?
Meetings
Which of the following is a difference between low-end and midrange tools of the project management software?
Midrange tools are designed to handle larger projects than low-end tools.
What are examples of rewards?
Money, status, recognition, promotions, and special work assignment
Is email the most appropriate medium for all types of communication?
No
Is all conflict bad?
No, PM's must realize that conflict produces important results, new ideas, alternatives and motivation to work harder/collaboratively
Should the stakeholder management plan be available to all stakeholders?
No, it includes sensitive info and should no be part of the official project documents
Can sensitive info be included in the stakeholder register?
No, this document is available to other people in the org and no sensitive info should be on it
Which of the following is true of projects?
One of the attributes of projects is that they has have a unique purpose. Every project should have a well-defined objective
_____ is an organization's acquisition of goods and services from an outside source.
Outsourcing
Where was stakeholder management devoted?
PMBOK Guide 2015 5th Edition
Which of the following provides certification as a Project Management Professional?
PMI
What affects the communication for groups?
People have different personality traits that often affect their communication preferences.
_____ life cycle models of systems development assume that the scope of the project can be articulated clearly and the schedule and cost can be predicted accurately.
Predictive
A _____ is an organizational group responsible for coordinating the project management function throughout an organization.
Project Management Office
Which of the following project management knowledge areas primarily involve generating, collecting, disseminating, and storing project information?
Project communications management
Martha works as a project manager at a bank. Due to certain changes in external factors, Martha needs to make a few alterations in the tactical goals of her project. In such a scenario, which of the following will best help Martha cope with the change?
Project environment knowledge
Which of the following project management knowledge areas is an overarching function that affects and is affected by the different knowledge areas?
Project integration management
Which of the following is a difference between project management and portfolio management?
Project management addresses specific, short-term goals whereas portfolio management focuses on long-term goals.
Galaxy, a construction company, buys a particular brand of tiles manufactured by Tiles and Floors, an eco-friendly tile manufacturing company. However, Tiles and Floors has declared bankruptcy and closed down. At present, Galaxy is facing a crisis because there are no other manufacturers in the market that supplies eco-friendly tiles. Which of the following constraints is Galaxy currently facing?
Resources
Which are the growth needs in Maslow's hierarchy?
Self actualization
What would be the best way to convey sensitive or important info?
Short Face to face interaction
What are the key outputs of acquiring the project team?
Staff assignment, resource calendar, and project management plan updates
Which of the following is true about identifying stakeholder ?
Stakeholders with indirect ties to the project need not be engaged with.
Status report
Status reports describe where the project stands at a specific point in time. Status reports address where the project stands in terms of meeting scope, time, and cost goals.
This part of the email should clearly state the intention of the email
Subject line
_____ are sets of interacting components working within an environment to fulfill some purpose.
Systems
_____ addresses the business, technological, and organizational issues associated with creating, maintaining, and making a change to a system.
Systems management
Change requests are always made in writing.
TRUE
In project integration management, directing and managing project execution involves carrying out the project management plan by performing the activities included in it.
TRUE
Information systems can help an organization support a strategy of being a low-cost producer.
TRUE
Most colleges and universities have very strong functional organizations.
TRUE
Using a systems approach is critical to successful project management.
TRUE
An organization usually commits more money as a project continues, therefore a management review should occur after each phase to evaluate progress, potential success, and continued compatibility with organizational goals.
TRUE Because the organization usually commits more money as a project continues, a management review should occur after each phase to evaluate progress, potential success, and continued compatibility with organizational goals.
Project managers must take adequate time to identify, understand, and manage relationships with all project stakeholders.
TRUE Because the purpose of project management is to meet project requirements and satisfy stakeholders, it is critical that project managers take adequate time to identify,understand, and manage relationships with all project stakeholders.
The same organization can have different subcultures.
TRUE It is also important to note that the same organization can have different subcultures. The IT department may have a different organizational culture than the finance department, for example.
Project managers must have cooperation from people in other parts of the organization.
TRUE Project managers must have cooperation from people in other parts of the organization. If certain functional managers are not responding to project managers' requests for necessary information, top management must step in to encourage the functional managers to cooperate
The Adaptive Software Development (ASD) life cycle model assumes that software development follows an adaptive approach because the requirements cannot be clearly expressed early in the life cycle.
TRUE The adaptive software development (ASD) life cycle model assumes that software development follows an adaptive approach because the requirements cannot be clearly expressed early in the life cycle.
Standards and guidelines to follow when performing project management must be devised by top management.
TRUE The content of a project management plan and instructions for providing status information might seem like common sense to senior managers, but many new IT project managers have never created plans or created a nontechnical status report. Top management must support the development of these standards and guidelines, and encourage or even enforce their use
An organization that uses a project organizational structure earns their revenue primarily from performing projects for other groups under contract.
TRUE-A project organizational structure is hierarchical, but instead of functional managers or vice presidents reporting to the CEO, program managers report to the CEO. Their staffs have a variety of skills needed to complete the projects within their programs. An organization that uses this structure earns its revenue primarily from performing projects for other groups under contract.
Project managers and their teams must keep in mind the effects of any project on the interests and needs of the entire system or organization instead of focusing on the immediate concerns of the project.
TRUE-Although it is easier to focus on the immediate and sometimes narrow concerns of a particular project, project managers and other staff must keep in mind the effects of any project on the interests and needs of the entire system or organization.
Project managers in matrix organizations have staff from various functional areas working on their projects.
TRUE-Project managers in matrix organizations have staff from various functional areas working on their projects
According to the symbolic frame, the most important aspect of any event in an organization is not what actually happened, but what it means.
TRUE-The symbolic frame focuses on symbols and meanings. In this frame, the most important aspect of any event in an organization is not what actually happened, but what it means.
If project stakeholders are in different countries how is communication affected?
They have to communicate during irregular work hours and if the communicators are from different cultures the communication becomes more complex
Which of the following best defines the role of leaders?
They inspire people to reach goals.
What do achievement seekers need?
They need regular feedback and prefer to work alone or with other high achievers
Which of the following is true of low-end tools of the project management software?
They provide basic project management features.
Which of the following is true of program managers?
They provide leadership and direction for project managers heading the projects within a program.
Who grants authority to project managers?
Top management
Do not have a meeting if there is a better way of achieving the objective at hand.
True
Every project is constrained in different ways. For some projects, resources are the main concern
True
Good information technology project managers must have strong technical and communication skills.
True
In a project, communicating badly exponentially increases the possibility of making mistakes.
True
Internal stakeholders include top management, other functional managers, and other project managers, project sponsor, project team, support staff and internal customers
True
It is extremely important to document any changes in technical specifications that might affect product performance.
True
Most WBSs include a section for project communications to ensure that reporting key information is a project deliverable.
True
Project managers must assess the needs of the organization, the project, and individuals in determining which communication medium to use, and when.
True
Project stakeholder management has only recently been identified as an entire knowledge area by the Project Management Institute.
True
Rarely does the receiver interpret a message exactly as the sender intended.
True
The communications management plan varies with the needs of the project.
True
facilitator can help the team solve any communication problems.
True
What is an example of push communication?
Voice mail
What do status reports describe?
Where the project stands at a specific point in time
Where does the content of project communications come from?
Work breakdown structure
Do projects cause changes in an organization?
Yes
If the entire message can fit in the subject line should you put it in the subject line?
Yes
Should every project include a communication management plan?
Yes
Should project managers be aware of new technologies that can enhance communication and collaboration?
Yes
How would you praise an introverted team member?
You would have a private conversation with them and give them praise
How would you praise an extroverted team member?
You would praise them in a way where everyone could hear about it
Resource histogram (included in staffing management plan)
a column chart that shows the number of resources assigned to a project over time.
Project archives
a complete set of organized project records that provide an accurate history of the project. These archives can provide valuable info for future projects
Project summary report
a document where project manager combines info from all of the lessons learned reports
Lessons learned report
a reflective statement that documents important information they have learned from working on the project.
Issue Log
a tool used to document, monitor, and track issues that need resolution.
Wiki
a web site that enables anyone who access it to contribute or modify web page content
An important tool for project scope management is _____.
a work breakdown structure
According to Thamhain and Wilemon promotion is the...
ability to improve a workers position
The term _____ describes new approaches that focus on close collaboration between programming teams and business experts.
agile software development
Drivers
are proactive and task oriented. Rooted in the present and strive for action
Achievement Seekers
avoid low risk and high risk situations to improve their chances for achieving something worthwhile
Referent power
based on a persons own charisma. people who are held at a high regard
Why was project stakeholder management added as a knowledge area by PMI?
because stakeholder management is so important to project success
Project procurement management mainly involves:
buying goods and services for a project from outside the performing organization.
A Gantt chart is a standard format for displaying project schedule information by listing project activities and their corresponding start and finish dates in a ____ format.
calendar
Extrinsic motivation
causes people to do something for a reward or to avoid a penalty.
Some projects have a senior manager called a(n)_____ who acts as a key proponent for a project.
champion
A _____ is a tool used in quality management
checklist
In the _____ phase of the project life cycle, the work is completed, and customers should accept the entire project.
close-out
_____ involves monitoring stakeholder relationships and adjusting plans and strategies for engaging stakeholders as needed.
controlling stakeholder engagement
What is required if you want to improve and organizations communication?
cultural change
A(n) _____ refers to a product or service, such as a report, a training session, a piece of hardware, or a segment of software code, produced or provided as part of a project.
deliverable
Progress reports
describe what the project team has accomplished during a certain period
Affiliation Seekers
desire harmonious relationships with other people and need to feel accepted by others. They conform to group norms and prefer interpersonal work
Power Seekers
desire personal power or institutional power. Want to direct others and be the boss
A critical path:
determines the earliest completion date of a project.
Planning communications
determines the info and communications needs of the stake holders
Stakeholders might change during a project due to
employee turnover, partnerships, and other events.
What types of skills are needed for a project to succeed?
every project team member needs both types of skills, and needs to develop them continuously through formal education and on-the-job training.
The stakeholder register is the output of the _____ process of project stakeholder management.
executing
Scope, time and cost goals in order of importance can be ranked on a(n) _____.
expectations management matrix
Finalizing Project Requirments
first step in the framework for defining and assigning work
n(n-1)/2
formula to determine the number of comm channels as the number of people involved increases
In a(n) _____ organizational structure, project managers have little or no authority.
functional
Three general classifications of organizational structures are _____, project, and matrix.
functional
The project team must take corrective action if stakeholders with _____ are categorized as resistant or unaware.
high interest / high power
Enterprise project management softwares are also known as _____ tools of project management software.
high-end
Abraham Maslow
highly respected psychologist who rejected dehumanizing negativism in 1950s and developed Hierarchy of Needs
Team building exercises and motivation techniques are tools used in _____ management
human resource
Intuitive
imaginatie, ingenious, and attentive to hunches or intuition. Innovative and conceptual
In the _____ phase, the project team creates a definitive or very accurate cost estimate, delivers the required work, and provides performance reports to stakeholders.
implementation
Push communication
info is sent or pushed to recipients without their request
Pull communication
info sent to recipients at their request via web sites, bulletins, elearing, knowledge bases and other means
Acquiring the project team...
involves assigning the needed personnel to work on the project
Developing the project team...
involves building individual and group skills to enhance project performance
Engagement
involves dialogue in which people seek understanding and solutions to issues of mutual concern
Identifying stakeholders
involves identifying everyone involved in the project or affected by it, and determining the best ways to manage relationships with them
Managing the project team...
involves tracking team member performance, motivating team members, providing timely feedback, resolving issue/conflicts, and coordinating changes to help project performance
According to the guidelines provided by Practical Communications, Inc., and email
is a medium that is "excellent" for encouraging creative thinking.
Legitimate Power
is getting people to do things based on a position of authority. This type of power is similar to the authority basis of influence.
According to the guidelines provided by Practical Communications, Inc., a meeting
is the most appropriate medium for giving complex instructions.
A(n) _____ is a tool used to document, monitor, and track problems that need resolution.
issue log
What does theory Z emphasize?
job rotation, broadening skills, generalization, and continuous training
The items discussed in a(n) _____ include reflections on whether project goals were met, whether the project was successful or not, the causes of variances on the project, the reasoning behind corrective actions chosen, the use of different project management tools and techniques, and personal words of wisdom based on team members' experiences.
lessons learned report
One of the main outputs of the _____ process are the issue logs
managing stakeholder engagement
Mirroring
matching certain behaviors of the other person. people like others who are like themselves
Staff often report to both project manager(s) and a functional manager in a _____ organizational structure
matrix
Reasons why emails are not the best form of communication
not appropriate for assessing commitment, building consensus, mediating a conflict, resolving a misunderstanding, making an ironic statement, conveying a reference document, reinforcing one's authority, or maintaining confidentiality.
According to Tuckman, performing...
occurs when emphasis is on reaching goals and not on the process. Relationships are settled and team members build loyalty
Teamwork
one of the most important qualities in a successful organization. This remains an UNTAPPED competitive advantage
Leading stakeholder
one who is aware of the project and its potential impacts and actively engaged in helping it succeed
Sensation
people take in facts, details, and reality and practical
Compromise mode
pm's who use a give or take approach to resolve conflicts. Find solutions that bring satisfaction to all parties
Forecast
predict future project status and progress based on past info and trends
A _____ is a tool used in risk management
probability matrice
The role of a _____ is to provide direction and funding for a project
project sponsor
Groups representing consumer, environmental, or other interests can be identified as
project stakeholders
Microsoft Project 2010
provides variety of human resources management tools, some of which include assigning and tracking resources, resource leveling, usage reports, over allocated resource reports and to do list
Project _____ management ensures that the project will satisfy the stated or implied needs for which it was undertaken
quality
Analyticals
reactive and task oriented. Past oriented and strong thinkers
Sensation/Intuition (MBTI Dimension)
relates to the manner of how you gather info
The project team must take corrective action if stakeholders with high interest and high power are categorized as _____
resistant
Project _____ management involves defining and managing all the work required to complete the project successfully.
scope
Minutes
should be short and focus on crucial decisions and action items from the meeting
Communications software like e-mail, blogs, Web sites, texts, and tweets can aid
stakeholder communications
After identifying and analyzing stakeholders, the project manager and team should develop a(n)______ to help them effectively engage stakeholders and make sure that good decisions are made throughout the life of the project.
stakeholder management plan
The main output of identifying stakeholders is...
stakeholder register
A difference between strategic and tactical goals is that:
strategic goals are long-term in nature whereas tactical goals are short-term
The _____ frame of the organization is the one that is usually depicted in an organizational chart.
structural
Communication and interpersonal skills are important for..
successful project stakeholder management.
The _____ frame of an organization relates to the company's culture.
symbolic
A(n) _____ is a framework for describing the phases involved in developing information systems.
systems development life cycle (SDLC)
A(n) _____ is an overall model for thinking about things as sets of interacting components working within an environment to fulfill some purpose.
systems philosophy
What are the key outputs of developing the project team?
team performance assessments and enterprise environmental factors
The three spheres of systems management are business, organization, and _____.
technology
Steve, an engineer in a construction company, is at present working on a home construction project. The home is being built for the Robinson family, the owners of the home. Steve is working with his project team and support staff to ensure the project is completed on time. In such a scenario, the project sponsor is _____.
the Robinson family
When the amount of team members increases...
the complexity of communication increases
You cannot control stakeholders, but what can be controlled?
their level of engagement
If a project is falling behind, what usually happens if more people are added to the project?
this approach often causes more setbacks because of the increased complexity of communications.
Managing communications
this is a part of the executing process of the project communication management
Communications management plan
this is an output of planning communications
Fast tracking is an example of a tool used in _____ management
time
Thematic Apperception Test
tool used to measure needs of people. Presents subject with ambiguous pictures and ask them to develop a story assuming they will project their needs onto each picture
Reward power
using incentives to induce people to do things
Coercive power
using punishment, threats, or other negative approaches to get people to do things they do not want to do
Theory Z
workers trusted to do their job as long as management supports them and look out for their well being
Can developing stakeholder management be informal or formal?
yes
Can status reports take various formats depending on stakeholders needs?
yes
Do key stakeholders need to be invited to a kick off meeting?
yes, a dialogue is expected in that meeting
Can facebook be used as a forum to promote project activities?
yes, several PM software tools include facebook functionality
Do some people lose their jobs when projects are completed?
yes, some projects create systems that make jobs obsolete or end up outsourcing work to make org more efficient
Interface management involves identifying and managing the points of interaction between various elements of a project.
FALSE
Projects that address broad organizational needs are likely to fail.
FALSE
The ROI is always positive
FALSE
The introduction or overview of a project must only include a list of definitions and acronyms
FALSE
The number of interfaces in a single project is limited, and does not depend on the number of people involved in the project.
FALSE
_____ refer to undesirable situations that prevent an organization from achieving its goals.
Problems
_____ involves coordinating all of the other project management knowledge areas throughout a project's life cycle.
Project integration management
_____ is the result of subtracting the project costs from the benefits and then dividing by the costs.
Return on investment (ROI)
A(n) _____ involves analyzing a company's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, and is used to aid in strategic planning.
SWOT analysis
_____ involves determining long-term objectives by analyzing the strengths and weaknesses, studying opportunities and threats, predicting future trends, and projecting the need for new products and services.
Strategic planning
An annual discount factor is a multiplier for each year based on the discount rate and year.
TRUE
As projects progress, the organization must reevaluate the need, funding, and will for each project to determine if the project should be continued, redefined, or terminated.
TRUE
NPV analysis is a method for making equal comparisons between cash flows for multi-year projects
TRUE
Organizational process asset updates are an important output of the closing process of a project.
TRUE
Payback period is the amount of time it will take to recoup, in the form of net cash inflows, the total dollars invested in a project.
TRUE
Projects that arise as a result of problems and directives must be resolved quickly to avoid hurting an organization's business.
TRUE
A category of software that can help align projects with business strategy is called _____ tools.
business service management (BSM)
A positive NPV means the return from a project exceeds the _____, the return available by investing the capital elsewhere.
cost of capital
Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM)
maps the work of the project, as described in the WBS, to the people responsible for performing the work, as described in the OBS.
Thamain and Wilemon found that When project managers used work challenge and expertise to influence people...
projects were more likely to succeed.
Resource leveling
results in fewer problems for project personnel and accounting departments. Increasing and decreasing labor levels and human resources often produce additional work and confusion.
Douglas McGregor
was one of the great popularizers of a human relations approach to management, and he is best known for developing Theory X and Theory Y.
What else could you use a RAM for?
you can use it to define general roles and responsibilities on projects. This type of RAM can include the stakeholders in the project.
The first dimension of MBTI signifies that introverts
draw their energy from inside themselves
The _____ is the discount rate that results in an NPV of zero for a project.
internal rate of return (IRR)
Some organizations initiate projects using a contract in place of a project charter
TRUE
According to Herzberg, motivators such as larger salaries, more supervision, or a more attractive work environment would motivate workers to do more if present.He referred to factors that cause job satisfaction as motivators and factors that could cause dissatisfaction as hygiene factors.
True
Maslow suggests that each level of the hierarchy is a prerequisite for the levels above. For example, a person cannot consider self-actualization without first addressing basic needs of security and safety.
True
People who need institutional power or social power want to organize others to further the goals of the organization
True
A(n) _____ is a methodology that converts value drivers, such as customer service, innovation, operational efficiency, and financial performance, to a series of defined metrics.
balanced scorecard
A(n) _____ is the approved project management plan plus approved changes.
baseline
Smoothing Mode
project manager deemphasizes or avoids areas of differences and emphasizes areas of agreement.
_____ involves working with stakeholders to create the document that formally authorizes a project. a. Developing the project charter b. Developing the preliminary project scope statement c. Developing the project management plan d. Performing integrated change control
A Developing the project charter involves working with stakeholders to create the document that formally authorizes a project —the charter.
In the _____ stage of selecting information technology projects, organizations define project scope, benefits, and constraints. a. project planning b. business area analysis c. resource allocation d. information technology strategy planning
A In the project planning stage of selecting information technology projects, organizations define project scope, benefits, and constraints.
Which of the following is true of return on investment or ROI? a. It is always a percentage. c. It is the result of adding the project costs to the profits. b. It is always a positive number. d. The lower it is, the better.
A The ROI is always a percentage. It can be positive or negative.
The first step in determining the NPV is to _____. a. determine the estimated costs and benefits for the life of the project and the products it produces b. determine the discount rate c. calculate the net present value d. determine the cash flow
A The first step in determining the NPV is to calculate the estimated costs and benefits for the life of the project and the products it creates.
Which of the following is a proactive process undertaken to reduce the probability of negative consequences associated with project risks? a. Performance reports c. Defect repairs b. Preventive actions d. Corrective actions
B Preventive actions reduce the probability of negative consequences associated with project risks. The problem has not yet occurred. Measures are taken so that problems do not occur.
The first step in the planning process is _____. a. to tie the information technology strategic plan to the organization's overall strategic plan c. to start defining potential IT projects in terms of their scope, benefits, and constraints b. to perform a business area analysis d. to choose which projects to do and assigning resources to work on them
A The first step in the planning process, starting at the top of the hierarchy, is to tie the IT strategic plan to the organization's overall strategic plan.
A project's internal rate of return can be determined by finding what discount rate results in an NPV of _____ for the project. a. zero c. a hundred percent b. one d. fifty percent
A You can determine a project's internal rate of return (IRR) by finding what discount rate results in an NPV of zero for the project.
What is smoothing also called?
Accomodating, used when relationships (high importance) are more important than the task (low importance)
What types of responsibilities ARE NOT IMMEDIATELY available to project managers?
Assignment, budget, promotion, money, and penalty influences
Benefits minus costs is known as the _____. a. cost of capital c. discount factor b. cash flow d. opportunity cost of capital
B Cash flow is the benefits minus costs or income minus expenses.
_____ analysis is a method of calculating the expected net monetary gain or loss from a project by discounting all expected future cash inflows and outflows to the present point in time. a. Cost of capital c. Cash flow b. Net present value d. Payback
B Net present value (NPV) analysis is a method of calculating the expected net monetary gain or loss from a project by discounting all expected future cash inflows and outflows to the present point in time.
Payback occurs when: a. the net cumulative benefits minus costs equal one. c. the net costs are lower than the cumulative benefits. b. the net cumulative benefits equal the net cumulative costs. d. the cumulative benefits are double the cumulative costs.
B Payback occurs when the net cumulative benefits equal the net cumulative costs, or when the net cumulative benefits minus costs equal zero.
A SWOT analysis, being a linear process, cannot be performed using the nonlinear mind mapping technique.
FALSE
The _____ stage of information technology planning outlines business processes that are central to achieving strategic goals and helps determine which ones could most benefit from information technology. a. project planning b. business area analysis c. resource allocation d. information technology strategy planning
B The business area analysis outlines business processes that are central to achieving strategic goals and helps determine which processes could most benefit from IT.
The outputs of the _____ process include change request status updates, project management plan updates, and project document updates. a. initiating b. planning c. executing d. monitoring and controlling
D The outputs of the monitoring and controlling process include change request status updates, project management plan updates, and project document updates.
The _____ is the minimum acceptable rate of return on an investment. a. capitalization rate c. discount rate b. internal rate of return d. required rate of return
D The required rate of return is the minimum acceptable rate of return on an investment
The _____ section of the project management plan describes specific methodologies a project might use and explains how to document information. a. management objectives c. risk management b. project controls d. technical processes
D The technical processes section describes specific methodologies a project might use and explains how to document information.
What are some other things that go along with resource leveling?
Delays task, network analysis, and creates a smooth distribution of resource usage
_____ are new requirements imposed by management, government, or some external influence.
Directives
_____ factors include relevant government or industry standards, the organization's infrastructure, and marketplace conditions.
Enterprise environmental
A Gantt chart is the same as a project management plan.
FALSE
_____ involves identifying and managing the points of interaction between various elements of the project.
Interface management
_____ is a technique that uses branches radiating from a core idea to structure thoughts and ideas.
Mind mapping
_____ project work includes collecting, measuring, and disseminating performance information.
Monitoring
_____ analysis is a method of calculating the expected net monetary gain or loss from a project by discounting all expected future cash inflows and outflows to the present point in time.
Net present value Net present value (NPV) _____ analysis is a method of calculating the expected net monetary gain or loss from a project by discounting all expected future cash inflows and outflows to the present point in time.
_____ refer to chances to improve the organization.
Opportunities
_____ include formal and informal plans, policies, procedures, guidelines, information systems, financial systems, management systems, lessons learned, and historical information that can be used to influence a project's success.
Organizational process assets
Maslow's hierarchy of needs
states that people's behaviors are guided or motivated by a sequence of needs.
In the Tuckman model, storming occurs when...
team members have different opinions for how the team should operate. People test each other, and there is often conflict within the team.
Thamhain and Wilemon found that projects were more likely to fail when project managers relied too heavily on...
using authority, money, or penalty to influence people.
A(n) _____ is a tool that provides a systematic process for selecting projects based on many criteria.
weighted scoring model
According to Covey, projects managers must use a...
win/win approach in making decisions, but in competitive situations they sometimes must use a win/lose paradigm.
Theory X
workers dislike and avoid work if possible, so managers must use coercion, threats, and various control schemes to have workers make adequate efforts to meet objectives. They assume that the average worker wants to be directed and prefers to avoid responsibility, has little ambition, and wants security above all else.
The _____ section of the project management plan describes how to monitor project progress and handle changes. a. management objectives c. risk management b. project controls d. technical processes
B The project controls section describes how to monitor project progress and handle changes. Will there be monthly status reviews and quarterly progress reviews? Will there be specific forms or charts to monitor progress?
In a weighted scoring model, the sum of the weights of all the criteria must total _____ percent. a. 10 c. 100 b. 50 d. 150
C In a weighted scoring model, a weight is assigned to each criterion based on its importance to the project. Determining weights requires consultation and final agreement. You can assign weights based on percentages; the weights of the criteria must total 100 percent.
In the _____ stage of selecting information technology projects, organizations select information technology projects. a. project planning b. business area analysis c. resource allocation d. information technology strategy planning
C In the resource allocation stage of selecting information technology projects, organizations select information technology projects.
The business case includes information on _____. a. the business need for the project c. the project objective, high-level requirements, and time and cost goals b. relevant government or industry standards d. policies, procedures, guidelines, and systems that influence a project's success
C Many projects require a business case to justify their investment. Information in the business case, such as the project objective, high-level requirements, and time and cost goals, is included in the project charter.
The project schedule information section of the project management plan includes ____. a. a detailed budget c. an elaborate timetable b. a list of key deliverables d. a directory of staff involved in the project
C The project schedule information section should include a detailed schedule that provides more detailed information about the project schedule. It should reference the schedule management plan and discuss dependencies among project activities that could affect the project schedule.
The _____ section of the project plan should describe the major project functions and activities and identify those individuals who are in charge of them. a. organizational charts b. other organizational or process-related information c. project responsibilities d. management objectives
C This section of the project plan should describe the major project functions and activities and identify the people responsible for them. A responsibility assignment matrix is often used to display this information.
A(n) _____ is a formal, documented process that describes when and how official project documents may be modified, the people authorized to make modifications, and the paperwork required for these changes. a. WBS c. performance report b. project charter d. change control system
D A change control system is a formal, documented process that describes when and how official project documents may be changed. It also describes the people authorized to make changes, the paperwork required for these changes, and any automated or manual tracking systems the project will use.
A _____ is a document that recognizes the existence of a project and provides direction on the project's objectives and management. a. stakeholder register c. directive b. risk register d. project charter
D A project charter is a document that formally recognizes the existence of a project and provides direction on the project's objectives and management.
A(n) _____ is a formal group of people responsible for approving or rejecting changes to a project.
change control board (CCB)
Staffing Management Plan
describes when and how people will be added to the project team and taken off it. The level of detail may vary based on the type of project.
The first dimension of MBTI signifies that extroverts
draw their energy from other people
Corrective actions reduce the probability of negative consequences associated with project risks, while preventive actions should result in improvements in project performance.
FALSE
It is necessary that IT project managers have prior technical experience in creating and managing IT products.
FALSE
Opportunities and directives are essentially the same thing
FALSE
The organization should complete low-priority projects before high-priority ones, if the low-priority ones take less time.
FALSE
A project charter typically does not authorize the project manager to use organizational resources to complete the project.
FALSE
An organization should consider only projects with a negative NPV if financial value is a key criterion for project selection.
FALSE
An organization's information technology project selection process should guide the strategic plan.
FALSE
A _____ is a document used to coordinate all project planning documents and help guide a project's execution and control. a. project management plan c. scope statement b. statement of work d. business case
A A project management plan is a document used to coordinate all project planning documents and help guide a project's execution and control
_____ involves identifying and controlling the functional and physical design characteristics of products and their support documentation, and ensures that the descriptions of the project's products are correct and complete. a. NPV analysis c. Configuration management b. Project management information systems d. Project time management
C Configuration management ensures that the descriptions of the project's products are correct and complete. It involves identifying and controlling the functional and physical design characteristics of products and their support documentation.
_____ involves identifying, evaluating, and managing changes throughout the project life cycle.
Integrated change control
An IT company revises its process parameters in response to complaints from vendors that products were not ready on time. This would be an example of _____. a. cost forecasting c. defect repairs b. a preventive action d. a corrective action
D Corrective actions should result in improvements in project performance.
_____ are new requirements imposed by management, government, or some external influence. a. Opportunities c. Problems b. Charters d. Directives
D Directives are new requirements imposed by management, government, or some external influence.
