Fundamentals and Core Concepts Exam
prep
What is a PROJECT? - correct answersA temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique product,
service, or result. It has a defined start and end date, specific goals and objectives, and a defined scope.
They are typically managed by project managers who oversee the planning, execution, and closure of
the project.
What is a PROGRAM? - correct answersA group of related projects that are managed together to
achieve a common strategic objective. They are typically larger and more complex than individual
projects, and they often span multiple years. They are managed by program managers who oversee the
overall program strategy, resource allocation, and risk management.
What is a PORTFOLIO? - correct answersA collection of related projects, programs, and other
investments that are managed together to achieve strategic objectives. They are typically managed by
portfolio managers who oversee the selection, prioritization, and optimization of projects and programs
within it.
What is OPERATIONS? - correct answersOngoing and repetitive activities that produce or maintain the
outputs of projects. They are the day-to-day activities that ensure a business runs smoothly and
efficiently. It is typically managed by operations managers who oversee the production process, supply
chain management, and quality control.
What is the PREDICTIVE APPROACH? - correct answers(Also known as the waterfall method) A
traditional project management methodology that relies on detailed upfront planning and execution. It
emphasizes defining clear requirements, scope, and deliverables at the start of the project, following a
sequential linear progression through phases like design, development, testing, and deployment.
What is the ADAPTIVE APPROACH? - correct answers(AKA agile methodology) An approach that
embraces flexibility and adaptability to changes throughout the project lifecycle. It emphasizes
incremental development, where requirements and solutions evolve through iterative cycles of
planning, development, testing, and feedback. This approach is well-suited for projects with uncertain
requirements or evolving market conditions.
What is an ISSUE in project management? - correct answersA problem that has already occurred or is
currently happening in the project. It can be caused by a variety of factors, such as scope changes,
resource shortages, or technical challenges. They need to be identified, assessed, and resolved in order
to minimize their impact on the project.
What is a RISK in project management? - correct answersA potential problem that could occur in the
future. They are usually identified during the planning phase of the project, and a risk assessment is
conducted to evaluate the likelihood and impact of each risk. They can be mitigated by taking preventive
actions, such as developing contingency plans or implementing risk monitoring procedures.
, What is an ASSUMPTION in project management? - correct answersA belief or statement of fact that is
taken to be true without proof. They are often used to make decisions or plans during the early stages of
a project. They need to be clearly identified and documented so that they can be revisited and validated
as the project progresses.
What is a CONSTRAINT in project management? - correct answersa limitation or restriction that is
imposed on the project. They can be internal, such as budget or resource limitations, or external, such as
regulatory requirements or client expectations. They need to be taken into account throughout the
project lifecycle, and project managers need to find ways to work within them.
Characteristics of a well-defined project scope - correct answers...
Clarity and Comprehensiveness - correct answersThe scope should clearly articulate the project's
objectives, deliverables, and outcomes, leaving no ambiguity about what the project aims to achieve. It
should encompass all aspects of the project, from the initial planning stages to the final delivery and
closure.
Measurability and Verifiability - correct answersThe scope should establish measurable criteria to assess
the completion of each deliverable and the overall project success. This allows for objective evaluation
of progress and ensures that the project is on track to meet its intended goals.
Alignment with Project Goals - correct answersThe scope should align with the project's overall goals
and objectives. This ensures that the project's efforts are directed towards achieving the desired
outcomes and that the scope is not overly broad or encompasses activities that are not relevant to the
project's purpose.
Feasible and Realistic - correct answersThe scope should be achievable within the project's constraints,
considering available resources, timelines, and budget limitations. It should be realistic and attainable,
taking into account the capabilities of the project team and the complexities involved in the project's
undertakings.
Dynamic and Adaptable - correct answersThe scope should allow for flexibility to accommodate changes
that may arise during the project lifecycle. It should not be rigid or inflexible, but rather adaptable to
unforeseen circumstances while maintaining focus on the core objectives.
Documentation and Communication - correct answersThe scope should be clearly documented and
communicated to all stakeholders. This ensures that everyone involved in the project has a shared
understanding of the project's boundaries, expectations, and deliverables. Effective communication of
the scope helps to prevent misinterpretations and potential conflicts.
Regular Review and Updates - correct answersThe scope should be periodically reviewed and updated
as the project progresses. This allows for adjustments to reflect changes in requirements, circumstances,
or priorities. Regular review ensures that the scope remains relevant and aligned with the project's
evolving needs.
Stakeholder Agreement - correct answersThe scope should be agreed upon by key stakeholders,
ensuring alignment of expectations and minimizing potential conflicts later in the project. This