A project manager is about to start a large-scale project with unclear requirements, a fixed deadline, and a fixed budget. The client is unable to provide a product owner, as they do not have enough capacity and they want to be involved only a few times during the project.
How should the project manager plan and manage the project?
Agreeing up front on a minimum viable product (MVP), establishing deadlines for review, and running the project with a backlog and weekly sprints is the best approach for a large-scale project with unclear requirements, a fixed deadline, and a fixed budget. This approach ensures that the project focuses on delivering the most essential features first, which is crucial given the constraints. Iterative development with weekly sprints allows for flexibility and adaptability to changing requirements and client feedback. Establishing deadlines for review ensures that the client is involved at critical points, even with limited capacity, providing necessary guidance and feedback to keep the project aligned with their expectations.
The answer is C, coz A. Convincing the client: While a product owner is beneficial, pushing for it might risk losing the project. It's better to work with the constraints and propose a workable solution (C). B. Detailed plan: This is risky with undefined requirements and might create unnecessary rigidity. D. Refusing: Although the risks are real, abandoning the project without exploring alternatives isn't a responsible option.
By agreeing on a minimum viable product (MVP) up front, you ensure that the project delivers the most critical and valuable features first. This aligns with the fixed deadline and budget constraints, allowing for a functional product to be delivered even if the scope needs to be adjusted. Running the project with a backlog and weekly sprints allows for iterative development, where progress can be reviewed and adjustments can be made frequently. This flexibility is crucial given the unclear requirements. Establishing deadlines for review ensures that the client is involved at critical points, even if their availability is limited. This maintains their engagement and provides opportunities for feedback, which is essential for guiding the project in the right direction.
C. Agree up front on a minimum viable product (MVP), establish deadlines for review, and run the project with a backlog and weekly sprints. Explanation: This approach allows the project to proceed with the fixed constraints of budget and deadline while managing the scope through the MVP. Weekly sprints and regular reviews ensure ongoing communication and involvement from the client, even with limited capacity.