Predictive Plan Approach - 2026

In project management, when is it appropriate to use a predictive, plan-based approach?

• When the project scope and objectives are well-defined and unlikely to change

• When the project is complex and involves significant uncertainty

• When the project is simple and routine

• When the project is a one-time event

Answer explanation

A predictive, plan-based approach, also known as a waterfall model, is a traditional project management approach that is based on a detailed plan and a linear sequence of phases.

In project management, which of the following characteristics are associated with well-defined goals?

• Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound

• General, Unmeasurable, Unachievable, Irrelevant, and Not Time-bound

• Specific, Unmeasurable, Unachievable, Relevant, and Time-bound

• General, Measurable, Achievable, Irrelevant, and Not Time-bound

Answer explanation

Well-defined goals in project management are characterized by being Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART).

Which of the following organizational structures is most suitable for a predictive, plan-based approach?

• A hierarchical structure with centralized decision making

• A flat structure with decentralized decision making

• A matrix structure with a balance of centralized and decentralized decision making

• A virtual structure with distributed teams

Answer explanation

A predictive, plan-based approach, or a waterfall model, is a traditional project management approach based on a detailed plan and a linear sequence of phases.

This approach is best suited for organizations with a hierarchical structure and centralized decision-making, where a clear chain of command and decision-making authority is clearly defined.

In a predictive, plan-based approach, which of the following activities typically takes place during the execution phase?

• Identifying and managing project risks

• Defining and communicating project scope and objectives

• Developing a detailed project schedule

• Implementing and executing project tasks

Answer explanation

In a predictive, plan-based approach, or a waterfall model, the project is divided into distinct phases, such as planning, execution, and closure, with clear deliverables and milestones for each phase.

During the execution phase, the project team focuses on implementing and executing the project tasks defined in the planning phase.

In project management, when is it appropriate to use an Agile Approach?

• When the project scope and objectives are well-defined and unlikely to change

• When the project is complex and involves significant uncertainty

• When the project is simple and routine

• When the project is a one-time event

Answer explanation

An Agile approach is a flexible, iterative and incremental method of project management characterized by its ability to adapt to changing requirements, priorities and to deliver a working product incrementally.

In a predictive, plan-based approach, which of the following is a key activity when developing plans and schedules?

• Identifying and mitigating project risks

• Defining and communicating specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals and objectives

• Allocating resources and assigning tasks

• Creating a detailed Gantt chart

Answer explanation

Developing plans and schedules is a key activity during the planning phase in a predictive, plan-based approach, also known as a waterfall model.

A key tool used to develop plans and schedules is a Gantt chart

In a predictive, plan-based approach, which of the following is a key activity when monitoring progress?

• • Identifying and mitigating project risks

• • Defining and communicating specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals and objectives

• • Comparing actual progress to the project plan

• • Creating a detailed Gantt chart or network diagram

Answer explanation

In a predictive, plan-based approach, also known as a waterfall model, monitoring progress is a key activity throughout the project, particularly during the execution phase.

This involves comparing the actual progress of the project to the project plan, to ensure that the project is on schedule and that deliverables are completed on time.

In a predictive, plan-based approach, which of the following is the most important consideration when defining goals and objectives?

• • Achievability

• • Relevance

• • Specificity

• • Measurability

Answer explanation

Defining clear and specific goals and objectives is crucial to the project's success in a predictive, plan-based approach, also known as a waterfall model.

Specific goals are well-defined and easy to understand by all stakeholders.

What is the main difference between a plan and a schedule?

• • A plan is a document,

  • while a schedule is a visual representation of the project

• • A plan outlines the overall project goals and objectives,

  • while a schedule details the specific tasks and milestones to achieve them

• • A plan is a high-level overview, while a schedule is a detailed breakdown of the project

What is the main difference between goals and objectives?

• • Goals are specific and measurable, while objectives are general and unmeasurable

• • Goals are the end result, while objectives are the steps to achieve the end result

• • Goals are high-level and long-term, while objectives are specific and short-term

• • Goals are qualitative, while objectives are quantitative

Answer explanation

Goals and objectives are both important for the success of the project, but they serve different purposes.

Goals are the overall desired outcome of the project; they are the long-term results that the project is aiming to achieve.

On the other hand, objectives are the specific and measurable steps that need to be taken to achieve the project goals.