PMP Process — Managing Technical Aspects Practice Question
You are managing a project that is behind schedule. The project sponsor has asked you to explore schedule compression techniques. Which TWO options are valid schedule compression techniques that can be applied without changing scope? (Choose two.)
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
✓
Crashing: adding resources to critical path activities.
Options B and E are the two main schedule compression techniques. Crashing (B) adds resources to critical path activities to shorten duration, and fast tracking (E) performs activities in parallel that were originally sequential. Option A reduces scope, which changes scope. Option C (resource leveling) often lengthens the schedule. Option D (adding contingency) increases time.
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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Reducing scope: eliminating non-essential deliverables.
Why it's wrong here
Reducing scope, while potentially shortening the overall project duration by eliminating work, is not a schedule compression technique in the context of delivering the *original* scope faster. This action fundamentally alters the project's product scope and requires a formal change request process, impacting project objectives and stakeholder expectations. It's a scope management decision, not a pure schedule management technique for the defined work.
- ✓
Crashing: adding resources to critical path activities.
Why this is correct
Crashing is a schedule compression technique that involves adding or assigning additional resources to critical path activities to complete them in less time. This method often incurs increased costs due to the extra resources, such as overtime or hiring more personnel, and may also increase risk. It is specifically applied to activities on the critical path to achieve the maximum schedule reduction.
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Resource leveling: adjusting start and finish dates to address resource constraints.
Why it's wrong here
Resource leveling is a technique used to optimize resource utilization by adjusting activity start and finish dates when resources are over-allocated or under-allocated. While it smooths resource usage and prevents overallocation, it frequently extends the project's overall duration because activities are delayed to wait for available resources. Therefore, it is counterproductive for a project that is already behind schedule and needs compression.
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Adding contingency time to activities.
Why it's wrong here
Adding contingency time to activities involves incorporating extra duration to account for identified risks or uncertainties. This practice is a risk response strategy aimed at protecting the schedule from potential delays, but it inherently increases the planned duration of the activities and, consequently, the overall project schedule. Therefore, it directly contradicts the objective of compressing a behind-schedule project.
- ✓
Fast tracking: performing activities in parallel that were originally sequential.
Why this is correct
Fast tracking is a schedule compression technique where activities that would normally be performed in sequence are instead performed in parallel or with some overlap. This approach reduces the overall project duration by shortening the critical path, but it often increases project risk due to the potential for rework if early phases are not fully complete or validated before subsequent phases begin. It is a common strategy for projects needing to accelerate delivery.
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