Two project managers are working on separate projects that have identified the same subject matter expert (SME) as critical to their projects. Project A is using a predictive approach and Project B is using an agile approach.
Which project should the SME be allocated to?
In a predictive project management approach, detailed planning and resource allocation are performed upfront. Project A has already incorporated the SME's availability into its planning assumptions. Changing critical resources mid-project in predictive environments can lead to significant disruptions and deviations from the planned schedule. Therefore, to maintain consistency with the initial project plan and reduce the risk of delays or project failure, the SME should be allocated to Project A.
Both projects would have assumed the need for the SME. The only logical choice would B to ensure at the highest valued project gets the their time.
While the other options may have some merit, the key consideration in this case is to avoid disrupting the plan that was made based on the assumption of the SME's availability, which is more typical in predictive project management methodologies. Project A planned its activities assuming the availability of the SME, which is part of the predictive (or traditional) project management approach. Changing critical resources mid-project in predictive environments can lead to disruptions and deviations from the planned schedule. Project B, which is using an agile approach, is more flexible in adapting to changes, and agile projects often prioritize responding to change over following a plan.
I would argue the project with the highest value will get critical resource.
Should be B instead of C. If project A is a ten dollars project and project B is a billion project, which project should be assigned?
D is the answer.
In agile frameworks, adaptability and continuous delivery are crucial, making the SME's technical expertise invaluable. As Project B follows an agile approach, the SME's contribution can enhance the team's capabilities, addressing technical complexities. Collaboration and cross-functional teamwork in agile settings further support the integration of specialized skills. This decision should be made collaboratively, considering the specific context, project requirements, and ongoing priorities. Ultimately, allocating the SME to Project B can contribute significantly to achieving the technical excellence required for agile project success
In a predictive (or traditional) project management approach, planning is done upfront, and dependencies, including critical resources like SMEs, are typically identified early in the project. If Project A's plan assumed the availability of the SME, allocating the SME to Project A aligns with the initial project assumptions and plans. This helps maintain consistency with the project's original baseline and reduces the risk of disruptions caused by changes in resource allocation.
LOL what score, B is irrelevant. C. Project A, because project planning was based on the assumption that the SME would be available. Allocating the SME to Project A ensures that the project's initial planning assumptions are met, reducing the risk of project delays or failures.
Why do so many people choose C? Please explain. I don't understand.
The project with the highest score in the program to improve the likelihood of success. In this case, the decision should be based on the overall strategic importance and priority of the projects within the program. Allocating the SME to the project that scores the highest in terms of strategic importance, risk, and potential benefits ensures that the organization maximizes its resources to achieve the best possible outcomes. It is not necessarily about the approach (predictive or agile) or the experience level of the project manager, but rather which project will have the greatest impact on the organization's objectives.
B. The project with the highest score in the program to improve the likelihood of success
In this situation, the best approach is to consider Project A, which is using a predictive approach, because the planning for this project was based on the assumption that the SME would be available. In a predictive (waterfall) project, timelines and deliverables are often carefully planned in advance, and the absence of a critical resource like an SME can disrupt the entire schedule. The correct answer is: C. Project A, because project planning was based on the assumption that the SME would be available. Since Project A has already planned around the SME's availability, allocating the SME to Project A will reduce the risk of project delays or rework. While technical excellence is critical in agile projects (answer D), agile projects are generally more flexible and can adapt more easily to resource changes. Therefore, the priority should go to Project A, which has already made firm assumptions about the SME's involvement.
because project planning was based on the assumption that the SME would be available.