Project Management Professional (PMP) — Question 291

The project sponsor reports that a key stakeholder is complaining about performance differences in the metrics reported by the project manager, which gives the impression that the project is out of control. The project manager has been providing the project's status according to the agreed-upon communications management plan. This key stakeholder, however, seldom attends the status report meetings.
What should the project manager do first to address this situation?

Answer options

• A. Evaluate the communication needs to discover the gaps and adjust the original plan if needed.
• B. Use the contingency reserves to implement fast tracking and improve the schedule key performance indicators (KPIs).
• C. Review the resource breakdown structure (RBS) to request the main stakeholder's manager to replace the stakeholder.
• D. Provide evidence to the project sponsor that the project is on track and the communications have been sent.

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is A because identifying and addressing communication gaps is crucial for ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged. The other options do not directly address the root cause of the stakeholder's concerns, which is a lack of effective communication and engagement rather than issues with the project's performance or resource allocation.