Sample Exam

Sample Exam 1

A. Essay

1. Discuss the factors that have contributed to the growth of the Project Management Institute.

Ans: The complexity of problems faced by the project manager and the rapid growth in the number project-oriented organizations has contributed to the professionalization of project management. The growth in membership reflects the growth in the use of projects as well as the importance of PMI in the development of project management as a profession. The mission of PMI is to foster the growth of project management and to build professionalism in the field. PMI is responsible for codifying the areas of learning required for competent project management. In this capacity, PMI maintains the PMBOK Guidelines, which serve as the ANSI standard in North America for project management. The PMI maintains certification standards such as the designation for PMP, which is the acronym for Project Management Professional.

Response: Refer to the section titled” The Project Manager.”

2. Explain why it is necessary for the project manager to understand the reasons leading to the selection of a project.

Ans: If the project manager does not understand what a given project is expected to contribute to the parent organization, the project manager lacks critical information needed to manage the project successfully. It is important for the project manager to make sound business decisions regarding the work that will be done as part of the authorized project scope. The criteria used to select a project should provide the project manager with important insights about what the organization is trying to accomplish. The project manager should use these insights to align the project's work with the organization’s objectives.

Response: Refer to the Chapter 2 introduction.

3. Identify the major reasons for the rapid growth of project-oriented organizations.

Ans: First, speed and market responsiveness have become requirements of successful...