CAPM Predictive Plan-Based Methodologies Practice Question
During project execution, a key stakeholder requests a change that will increase the project scope. The project manager evaluates the impact and determines it will require additional budget and time. What should the project manager do first?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many exam-takers assume the project manager has the authority to approve or reject changes that impact baselines, but in predictive methodologies, only the CCB can make that decision after a formal change request is submitted.
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
✓
Submit a change request to the change control board
In predictive (waterfall) project management, any change that impacts scope, budget, or schedule must follow a formal change control process. The project manager first assesses the impact, then submits a change request to the Change Control Board (CCB) for approval before any action is taken. Implementing the change or updating baselines without CCB approval violates the control scope process defined in the PMBOK Guide.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Implement the change and update the project plan
Why it's wrong here
Implementing before approval bypasses the Perform Integrated Change Control process, so the change is never formally authorised or baselined. It tempts because acting quickly appears responsive, and it would be correct only after the change request has been approved through the change control board.
- ✓
Submit a change request to the change control board
Why this is correct
Scope changes affecting budget and schedule must pass through integrated change control. Submitting a change request to the change control board first ensures the request is formally evaluated, approved, or rejected before any baselines are modified, preserving the project's approved scope, cost, and schedule.
- ✗
Update the project baseline immediately
Why it's wrong here
Baselines are updated only after a change request is approved through integrated change control; doing so first bypasses that approval, so the impact assessment and CCB decision are skipped. It tempts because baselines must eventually reflect approved changes, but that happens after authorisation, not before.
- ✗
Reject the change because it impacts the baseline
Why it's wrong here
Rejection is a change control decision, not the project manager's first action; the request must be assessed and routed to the change control board or sponsor. It tempts because baselines exist to prevent uncontrolled scope creep, but outright refusal ignores the documented change management process.
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