- A
Whether the defect violates the agreed definition of done
Correct. The definition of done is a quality agreement; releasing with a known defect violates it.
- B
The risk of releasing with the defect and potential rework
Correct. Releasing with a defect carries risks of user dissatisfaction and rework.
- C
The cost of delaying the release versus the cost of fixing later
Why wrong: Incorrect. Although cost of delay is important, it is not among the top three factors given the focus on quality and risk.
- D
The team's ability to fix the defect without affecting other features
Why wrong: Incorrect. The team's ability to fix without side effects is a technical detail, not a primary advisory factor.
- E
The severity of the defect and its impact on end users
Correct. Severity and impact on end users are critical in determining whether to fix immediately.
PMP Definition of Done Practice Question
This PMP practice question tests your understanding of process — managing technical aspects. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. A key principle to apply: definition of Done. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
You are managing a software upgrade project. The team has identified a critical defect that requires immediate fixing, but the fix will delay the next release by one week. The product owner wants to release on time with the defect. Which THREE factors should you consider when advising the product owner?
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
Whether the defect violates the agreed definition of done
Option A is correct because the definition of done includes quality criteria; releasing with a critical defect violates that agreement. Option B is correct because releasing with a known defect introduces risk of rework and negative impact on users. Option E is correct because the severity and user impact are primary factors in prioritizing the fix. Option C is incorrect: while cost of delay is relevant, the question focuses on quality and risk, not purely cost trade-offs. Option D is incorrect: the team's ability to fix without affecting other features is a technical consideration but not among the top three factors for this decision.
Key principle: Definition of Done
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Whether the defect violates the agreed definition of done
Why this is correct
Correct. The definition of done is a quality agreement; releasing with a known defect violates it.
Related concept
Definition of Done
- ✓
The risk of releasing with the defect and potential rework
Why this is correct
Correct. Releasing with a defect carries risks of user dissatisfaction and rework.
Related concept
Definition of Done
- ✗
The cost of delaying the release versus the cost of fixing later
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. Although cost of delay is important, it is not among the top three factors given the focus on quality and risk.
- ✗
The team's ability to fix the defect without affecting other features
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. The team's ability to fix without side effects is a technical detail, not a primary advisory factor.
- ✓
The severity of the defect and its impact on end users
Why this is correct
Correct. Severity and impact on end users are critical in determining whether to fix immediately.
Related concept
Definition of Done
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Beware of confusing cost considerations with quality and risk factors; the question emphasizes adherence to quality standards and user impact.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Treat this as a scenario question. Identify the problem, the constraint, and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Definition of Done
- Risk Management
- Prioritization
- Quality
TExam Day Tips
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Definition of Done
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the PMP exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Definition of Done Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review definition of Done, then practise related PMP questions on the same topic to reinforce the concept.
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this PMP question test?
Process — Managing Technical Aspects — This question tests Process — Managing Technical Aspects — Definition of Done.
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Whether the defect violates the agreed definition of done — Option A is correct because the definition of done includes quality criteria; releasing with a critical defect violates that agreement. Option B is correct because releasing with a known defect introduces risk of rework and negative impact on users. Option E is correct because the severity and user impact are primary factors in prioritizing the fix. Option C is incorrect: while cost of delay is relevant, the question focuses on quality and risk, not purely cost trade-offs. Option D is incorrect: the team's ability to fix without affecting other features is a technical consideration but not among the top three factors for this decision.
What should I do if I get this PMP question wrong?
Review definition of Done, then practise related PMP questions on the same topic to reinforce the concept.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Definition of Done
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Last reviewed: Jun 21, 2026
This PMP practice question is part of Courseiva's free PMI certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the PMP exam.
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