PRINCE2F Project Initiation and Stages Practice Question
A project is in the Initiating a Project process. The project manager has drafted the project plan, but the project board requests that the project be broken into management stages. Which factor should primarily determine the number and length of management stages?
⚠ Common exam trap
PeopleCert often tests the misconception that stages are based on time or resource convenience, when in PRINCE2 they are strictly determined by management control points where major risks and decisions occur.
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
✓
The points in the project where major risks and decisions are expected
In PRINCE2, management stages are defined by key decision points and major risks, not by arbitrary time intervals. The project board uses stage boundaries to reassess business justification, approve continued investment, and control exposure to risk. Therefore, the primary factor is where significant risks or decisions are anticipated, as this aligns with the PRINCE2 principle of managing by stages.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
The project manager's preference for short stages to monitor progress
Why it's wrong here
Stage length should be based on business need, not personal preference.
- ✓
The points in the project where major risks and decisions are expected
Why this is correct
Stage boundaries are placed at decision points.
- ✗
The availability of team members for each phase
Why it's wrong here
Resource availability is a schedule issue, not a stage boundary driver.
- ✗
The need to keep costs low by minimizing stage boundaries
Why it's wrong here
Cost is a factor, but decision points are primary.
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