Question 1

In a project meeting, if someone suggested using a "parking lot," this would refer to:

Accepted Answer

A "parking lot" in a project meeting context refers to a list or space where topics, questions, or issues that are not directly related to the current agenda but are still important to address, are "parked" for discussion at a later time. This ensures that the meeting stays focused while also acknowledging and saving other important points for future consideration.

Question 2

In which of the following ways can a project manager benefit from leading team meetings effectively?

Accepted Answer

Leading team meetings effectively can indeed increase the likelihood of attracting the right people to future projects, establish the project manager's reputation as a good manager and leader, and facilitate effective communication among team members. However, it doesn't necessarily establish the PM's authority as the primary decision maker, as effective leadership often involves delegation and collaboration rather than centralized decision-making.

Question 3

Which of these are characteristics of the best project managers?

Accepted Answer

Disciplined, yet flexible project managers can maintain order and structure while adapting to changes and unforeseen challenges, which is crucial for successful project management.

Question 4

Under which of the following conditions would a project manager be wise to use a compromising approach to resolve a project conflict?

Accepted Answer

A compromising approach is most effective when the goal is to achieve a level of satisfaction for all parties involved in a dispute, ensuring that everyone gains something from the resolution.

Question 5

Intrinsic motivators:

Accepted Answer

Intrinsic motivators are related to the task itself and the internal satisfaction or enjoyment that comes from doing the task, rather than external rewards or pressures.

Question 6

A colleague has come to you asking for advice on how best to approach an upcoming negotiation. You have elected to share with her the "principled negotiation" approach. Which of the following points should you include in your advice? Circle all that apply.

Accepted Answer

Principled negotiation involves focusing on interests rather than positions, exploring mutually beneficial solutions, and ensuring outcomes are based on objective standards.

Question 7

At a November meeting, a team member disagrees with the project manager over a proposed deadline for implementing a new sales software platform. The project manager wants the platform to "go live" by the 1^st of January so the upcoming year's data can be uploaded on the same system. The team member, however, believes his division cannot complete the training in time because December is the busiest sales month. This is an example of which type of conflict:

Accepted Answer

This scenario describes a disagreement over the timing of a project deadline, which is directly related to the tasks and work processes involved in implementing the new sales software platform. Task-related conflict arises from differences in viewpoints, ideas, and opinions about how to accomplish a task, which is evident in the differing opinions on the feasibility of the proposed deadline.

Question 8

Under which situations does it make the most sense to deliver a message in person rather than by email?

Accepted Answer

Delivering a message in person is most effective for sensitive issues, where tone and empathy are important, and when fast feedback is needed, allowing for immediate discussion and clarification. Email is better for creating a permanent record.

Question 9

The idea behind the team iceberg is:

Accepted Answer

The answer of The idea behind the team iceberg is:...

Question 10

Imagine Alex has presented a proposal emphasizing what the company stands to lose if it does not move forward with his project. He would be relying on which of the following influence principles?

Accepted Answer

Prospect theory explains how people make decisions based on the potential value of losses and gains rather than the final outcome. Alex's emphasis on what the company stands to lose taps into the principle that losses often loom larger than gains, influencing decision-making.

Question 11

Rebecca has two possible courses of action to propose. One is significantly more costly than the other, and she is hoping to gain approval for that one. Which of these persuasion strategies is likely to work in her favor?

Accepted Answer

Presenting the bigger option first and then offering the smaller one as a fallback (if the first option is rejected) is a strategy known as the "door-in-the-face" technique. This approach can make the second, less costly option seem more reasonable by comparison, potentially increasing the likelihood of it being accepted.

Question 12

To effectively motivate a team, the project manager should understand the following about motivation select all correct items):

Accepted Answer

Understanding individual motivations, setting clear goals, and fostering a sense of ownership are key to effectively motivating a team. Intrinsic motivators often outweigh extrinsic ones once basic needs are met, and money is not always the primary motivator.

Question 13

A key idea for effective negotiating is to: .

Accepted Answer

Effective negotiation strategies typically involve focusing on interests rather than positions, building positive relationships without necessarily aiming for close friendship, and maintaining professionalism without critiquing personal style. Suggesting trades or exchanges can be part of negotiation but is not a fundamental starting principle.

Question 14

Important characteristics of preparation before a meeting include:

Accepted Answer

B and C are correct because a detailed agenda helps participants prepare and understand the meeting's structure, and arranging for refreshments helps maintain energy and focus during longer meetings. Flexibility is important, but the purpose of the meeting should be clear from the start. Ensuring enough material for a full presentation may not always be relevant, especially in collaborative or discussion-based meetings.

Quiz 2: The Effective Project Manager