hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
CISA A project uses a waterfall model Practice Question
A project uses a waterfall model. After design, the team discovers that the requirements have changed significantly. What is the BEST action?
⚠ Common exam trap
Watch out — candidates often think switching to agile is a flexible solution, but the CISA exam tests understanding that changing development methodologies mid-project violates the waterfall's sequential phase completion and introduces significant process and documentation risks.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Update the requirements and proceed with the design revision
In a waterfall model, each phase must be completed before the next begins, but when requirements change significantly after design, the best action is to update the requirements and revise the design. This preserves the structured, sequential nature of the waterfall while ensuring the final product meets the new needs. Canceling or ignoring changes would waste resources, and switching methodologies mid-project introduces integration risks and process discontinuity.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Cancel the project and start over
Why it's wrong here
Cancellation is an extreme measure; other options should be explored first.
- ✓
Update the requirements and proceed with the design revision
Why this is correct
Updating requirements and adjusting design is necessary to ensure the final product aligns with current needs.
- ✗
Continue with original requirements as planned
Why it's wrong here
Ignoring significant changes will result in a system that does not meet business needs.
- ✗
Switch to an agile methodology for the remainder of the project
Why it's wrong here
Abruptly changing methodology can cause confusion and may not be feasible given project constraints.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CISA practice question is part of Courseiva's free ISACA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the CISA exam.