Project Management Professional (PMP) — Question 838

A project manager is meeting with the project sponsor regarding a new project. The project manager tells the sponsor that, as part of the communications management plan, a weekly email will be sent with the status of the project, so the sponsor can be informed of the progress. The sponsor indicates that the email is not necessary because they will ask for a status update whenever it is needed.

What should the project manager do next?

Answer options

• A. Ask the project sponsor what sort of information is needed and agree on a frequency for the communication.
• B. Agree to the project sponsor’s request, but continue to copy them on the weekly email so they can be informed of progress in case it is needed
• C. Tell the project sponsor that if they prefer to not receive the communication, there is no problem in removing them from the email distribution
• D. Advise the project sponsor to request a 15-minute meeting, whenever necessary, with prior notification.

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is A because it allows the project manager to understand the sponsor's needs and establish a mutual agreement on communication frequency, which is crucial for project alignment. Options B and C undermine the communication plan by either continuing unnecessary emails or removing the sponsor from the communication altogether. Option D, while suggesting a solution, does not address the need for regular updates and could lead to misalignment.