Project Management Professional (PMP) — Question 1379

A project manager has begun a complex oil refinery project. Although the project is in the initiation phase, the sponsor keeps asking for concrete dates for the most important project milestones.
When will the project manager be able to provide the requested information?

Answer options

• A. During the planning phase, when processes for scope definition and activity duration and sequencing will be performed
• B. Close to the end of the project, as the forecasts will be more accurate and most risks will already be mitigated
• C. In the initiation process, as it happens concurrently with the project contract and project charter creation
• D. As soon as possible, as project delays can be significantly avoided when a schedule is developed early

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is A because during the planning phase, the project manager develops a detailed project schedule that includes milestones and their timelines. Options B and C are incorrect as they either provide information too late or suggest the initiation phase can provide detailed scheduling. Option D, while promoting early schedule creation, does not answer when the requested information will be available.