PRINCE2F PRINCE2 Processes Practice Question
Who is responsible for authorizing the initiation of a project?
⚠ Common exam trap
PRINCE2 often tests the misconception that the Project Manager, being the central figure in project execution, is responsible for authorizing initiation, but PRINCE2 explicitly assigns this authority to the Project Board to ensure governance and stakeholder commitment.
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
✓
Project Board
In PRINCE2, the Project Board is responsible for authorizing the initiation of a project. This is because the Project Board represents the business, user, and supplier interests and has the authority to commit resources and approve the project's initiation stage. The Project Manager prepares the initiation documentation, but only the Project Board can give the formal authorization to proceed.
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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Team Manager
Why it's wrong here
The Team Manager manages a team producing products within an agreed Work Package, and holds no authority over project initiation. It is tempting because Team Managers do manage work packages, but authorising initiation requires Project Board approval of the business case, which sits far above the Team Manager's delegated scope.
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Project Manager
Why it's wrong here
The Project Manager runs the project day to day but cannot authorise its initiation, since that decision requires Project Board approval of the business case. It is tempting because the Project Manager prepares the Project Brief and plans the initiation stage, yet authority to commit the organisation rests with the Board.
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Project Board
Why this is correct
The Project Board holds the authority to authorise project initiation, satisfying PRINCE2's principle that a project must have a defined decision-making body. It reviews the Project Brief and approves the Initiation Stage Plan, granting the Project Manager permission to proceed. This ensures continued business justification before significant resource commitment.
- ✗
Senior User
Why it's wrong here
The Senior User represents user interests on the Project Board, specifying requirements and benefits, but holds no mandate to authorise project initiation. It is tempting because the role does sit on the Board, yet authorisation of initiation belongs to the Project Board as a whole, acting on the Executive's business justification.
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