PMP Process — Managing Technical Aspects Practice Question
You are managing a software upgrade project. A senior executive bypasses you and directly instructs a team member to include a new feature in the release. The team member is confused and asks for your direction. What should you do FIRST?
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
✓
Speak with the executive to explain the change control process and the impact of the request.
The correct first action is to speak with the executive to explain the change control process and the impact of the request. This directly addresses the bypass, reinforces proper procedures, and allows the PM to discuss the implications without escalating prematurely. Option A is wrong because submitting a change request without assessment circumvents the process. Option B is wrong because following the instruction would bypass change control and could lead to scope creep. Option C is wrong because immediate escalation is not the first step; the PM should first attempt to resolve the issue with the executive directly.
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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Submit a change request on behalf of the executive without assessment.
Why it's wrong here
Submitting a change request without a thorough impact assessment (covering scope, schedule, cost, resources, and risks) fundamentally undermines the integrity of the Integrated Change Control process. The Project Manager's role is to facilitate informed decision-making, not to merely formalize an unvetted request, even from an executive. This action would introduce significant unmanaged risks and potential project instability by bypassing due diligence.
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Advise the team member to follow the executive's instruction.
Why it's wrong here
Advising a team member to follow an executive's instruction that bypasses established change control procedures directly abrogates the Project Manager's responsibility to manage project baselines and maintain governance. This action would set a dangerous precedent, encouraging future deviations from the approved plan and leading to uncontrolled scope creep, budget overruns, and unmanaged risks, thereby undermining the PM's authority and project success.
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Escalate the situation to the executive's manager immediately.
Why it's wrong here
Immediately escalating the situation to the executive's manager is a premature action that can damage professional relationships and organizational trust. Project Management best practices advocate for attempting to resolve issues at the lowest possible level first. Escalation should be considered a last resort, only after direct communication and attempts to resolve the conflict with the executive have failed to realign the request with project governance.
- ✓
Speak with the executive to explain the change control process and the impact of the request.
Why this is correct
Engaging in direct, professional communication with the executive is the most appropriate initial step. This allows the Project Manager to educate the executive on the importance of the Integrated Change Control process, explain the potential negative impacts (e.g., schedule delays, budget increases, quality issues, increased risk) of bypassing it, and collaboratively explore alternative solutions that adhere to project governance. This approach demonstrates leadership and a commitment to project success while respecting organizational hierarchy.
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Learn chapter
Introduction to the PMP Exam and Project Management Basics
Key term
Change Control Process
A formal, structured procedure used to manage any changes to a project's scope, schedule, budget, or requirements, ensuring every modification is reviewed, approved, tested, and documented before implementation.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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