PRINCE2F PRINCE2 Processes Practice Question
In the Directing a Project process, the Project Board authorizes an Exception Plan. What triggers the need for an Exception Plan?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many candidates confuse an Exception Plan with a Stage Plan or a Project Plan, but the key trigger is the forecast of exceeding stage tolerances, not routine stage boundaries or strategic requests.
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
✓
A stage tolerance is forecast to be exceeded
In PRINCE2, an Exception Plan is triggered when a stage tolerance is forecast to be exceeded. The Project Board authorizes this plan to address the deviation and keep the project on track. This is a key control mechanism within the Directing a Project process.
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 is closing
Why it's wrong here
Project closure is handled by the Closing a Project process, not by authorising an Exception Plan. It is tempting because closure can follow a premature shutdown, but an Exception Plan is triggered by a Stage Plan or Project Plan forecast to exceed its tolerances, which closure itself does not represent.
- ✓
A stage tolerance is forecast to be exceeded
Why this is correct
An Exception Plan is produced when a Stage Plan is forecast to exceed its agreed stage tolerance, meaning the stage can no longer be delivered within the delegated limits. The Project Board then authorises the Exception Plan in Directing a Project.
- ✗
A new stage is about to begin
Why it's wrong here
A new stage beginning is authorised through the normal Managing a Stage Boundary flow, not by an Exception Plan. It is tempting because stage boundaries are where plans are reviewed, but an Exception Plan is triggered when the current stage or project is forecast to exceed its agreed tolerances.
- ✗
The Project Board requests it for strategic reasons
Why it's wrong here
The Project Board cannot trigger an Exception Plan merely by requesting one; the trigger is a forecast breach of stage or project tolerances. It is tempting because the Board does authorise the Exception Plan, but that authorisation follows an Exception Report, not a discretionary strategic request.
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