CompTIA Project+

To establish the proper sequencing and duration of project activities, a network diagram is the most beneficial tool. A network diagram visually depicts the project activities and their dependencies or relationships. It shows the sequence in which tasks should be performed and can help in identifying the critical path, which is essential for understanding the project's timeline. While a Gantt chart is useful for displaying schedules and durations graphically, it is typically used after the project activities have already been sequenced and their durations determined. Therefore, for establishing sequencing and duration, the network diagram is more advantageous.

The two main characteristics of a project are that it is temporary and that it has a start and finish. A project is temporary because it has a defined beginning and end in time, which indicates a specific duration. It also involves a series of tasks that are completed to achieve specific objectives, thus having distinct initiation and completion points. These traits distinguish projects from ongoing operations, which are continuous and lack a definite end date.

The correct document to release first when a company determines it lacks the in-house capability to perform a project and seeks third-party services is a Request for Information (RFI). RFIs are used to gather general information about the capabilities of various vendors and options available in the market. It helps the company understand who can provide the required services and at what potential cost, allowing for a more informed decision in subsequent procurement steps.

To support the recommendation for the removal of a vendor, the project manager should bring the issue log and the procurement plan. The issue log will provide specific reasons and documented instances of why the vendor should be replaced, illustrating the problems and challenges faced with the current vendor. The procurement plan is important to outline the process and considerations for selecting, managing, and replacing vendors. This plan provides a structured approach to procurement which would help justify the next steps in selecting a new vendor.

The project is in the Planning phase when the project manager is creating the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS). The Planning phase involves defining all aspects of the project including scope, deliverables, and scheduling, and the WBS is a critical tool for organizing and defining the total scope of the project. In the Initiation phase, the project is just starting and the focus is on defining the scope and objectives. The Execution phase involves carrying out the work according to the project plan, and the Closing phase involves finalizing all aspects and closing out the project.