PRINCE2F PRINCE2 Processes Practice Question
Which process is responsible for authorizing the initiation of a project?
⚠ Common exam trap
A common confusion is between 'Starting Up a Project' and 'Directing a Project'—candidates mistakenly think the former authorizes initiation, but it only prepares the groundwork for the Board's decision.
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
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Directing a Project
The Directing a Project process is responsible for authorizing the initiation of a project because it sits at the management level, where the Project Board reviews the Project Brief and decides whether to proceed. The process includes the key activity 'Authorize Initiation,' which formally gives the Project Manager permission to start the Initiating a Project process and allocate resources.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Initiating a Project
Why it's wrong here
Initiating a Project assembles the Project Initiation Documentation and business case, but the Project Board authorises that initiation via the Directing a Project process; initiation itself prepares rather than approves. It is tempting because it produces the very documents being authorised.
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Directing a Project
Why this is correct
Directing a Project authorises the project's initiation and continued viability, with the Project Board making key decisions at each stage boundary. This satisfies the stem's requirement for the process that grants authorisation to begin, distinct from Starting up a Project, which only prepares the initiation documentation.
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Starting Up a Project
Why it's wrong here
Starting Up a Project only prepares the Project Brief and appoints the Executive; the Project Board's authorisation to initiate comes from Directing a Project. It is tempting because this process does precede initiation, but it produces the information the Board needs rather than granting approval.
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Controlling a Stage
Why it's wrong here
Controlling a Stage covers day-to-day delivery of an already-authorised stage, executing work packages and handling issues. It is tempting because it governs activity, but authorising project initiation belongs to the process that approves the Project Initiation Documentation before any stage work begins.
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