PRINCE2F PRINCE2 Practices Practice Question
What is the key difference between a Request for Change and an Off-specification?
⚠ Common exam trap
A common trap in PRINCE2 is the misconception that an Off-specification only applies to products that have already been created or baselined. In reality, PRINCE2 defines an Off-specification as any product (including those under development) that fails to meet its agreed specification, regardless of whether it has been baselined.
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 Request for Change is for any change to an agreed baseline; an Off-specification is when a product does not meet its specification
In PRINCE2, a Request for Change (RFC) is a proposal for a change to any product that has been baselined, while an Off-specification (Off-spec) is a notification that a product does not meet its agreed specification. The key distinction lies in the nature of the issue: an RFC seeks to alter an existing baseline, whereas an Off-spec reports a deviation from the specification that must be resolved, often through a concession or a corrective action.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
A Request for Change proposes a change to a product that has not yet been created; an Off-specification relates to a product that already exists and is defective
Why it's wrong here
Request for Change can be for existing products too.
- ✗
A Request for Change is always raised by the Project Manager; an Off-specification is raised by the Team Manager
Why it's wrong here
Both can be raised by any stakeholder.
- ✓
A Request for Change is for any change to an agreed baseline; an Off-specification is when a product does not meet its specification
Why this is correct
This is the correct distinction.
- ✗
A Request for Change must be approved by the Project Board; an Off-specification can be approved by the Change Authority
Why it's wrong here
Both may be approved by Change Authority or Board depending on delegation.
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