CAPM Practice Question: Project Management Fundamentals and Core Concepts
A manufacturing company is implementing a new ERP system. The project team includes members from IT, finance, and operations. The organization uses a strong matrix structure. Recently, the project has been missing milestones because the operations manager frequently assigns urgent operational tasks to the operations team members, who are also assigned part-time to the project. The project manager has discussed this with the operations manager, but the situation continues. The project sponsor is concerned about the delays and wants a solution within two days. What should the project manager do?
⚠ Common exam trap
PMI often tests the distinction between passive documentation (issue log/risk register) and active resolution; the trap here is that candidates choose D because it seems like proper process, but it fails to address the immediate need for a solution within two days as requested by the sponsor.
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
✓
Request that the functional managers allocate dedicated resources to the project for its duration.
In a strong matrix organization, functional managers retain authority over their team members' assignments. Since the operations manager continues to pull operations staff for urgent tasks despite the project manager's discussion, the root cause is resource availability. The most effective solution is to request dedicated resources from the functional managers, ensuring the project has full-time commitment from key team members and eliminating the conflict that causes milestone delays.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Compress the project schedule by fast-tracking remaining activities.
Why it's wrong here
Fast-tracking increases risk and does not resolve the resource availability issue.
- ✓
Request that the functional managers allocate dedicated resources to the project for its duration.
Why this is correct
In a strong matrix, the PM can negotiate for dedicated resources to eliminate the conflict.
- ✗
Escalate the issue to the project sponsor and ask for intervention.
Why it's wrong here
Escalation should be a last resort; the PM should first use their authority to request dedicated resources.
- ✗
Document the issue in the issue log and update the risk register.
Why it's wrong here
While documentation is important, it does not actively resolve the ongoing resource conflict.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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