PMI Risk Management Professional Practice Exam

As a Project Manager, what should you do when faced with conflicting objectives from different departments?

1. Prioritize senior management's objectives first

2. Include operations and technology objectives but delay management objectives

3. Ignore all conflicting objectives

4. Focus solely on cost reduction

The correct answer is: Include operations and technology objectives but delay management objectives

When faced with conflicting objectives from different departments, it is essential to take a comprehensive and balanced approach. Including both operations and technology objectives while delaying management objectives allows the project manager to address immediate operational needs and technological requirements that could impact project success. This approach promotes collaboration among departments, fostering communication and understanding, which is crucial for resolving conflicts. Involving various objectives creates an environment where all stakeholders feel heard and considered, leading to potential compromises that can benefit the project overall. Delaying management's objectives does not mean ignoring them; instead, it acknowledges the need for a phased approach to balance the immediate needs with strategic goals. This careful prioritization can help to stabilize the project and ensure that critical operational elements are not sidelined while creating a pathway toward aligning management goals at a later stage. Ultimately, this strategy emphasizes the importance of adaptability and stakeholder management, which are key competencies for a successful project manager, helping to mitigate risks associated with conflicting objectives.