A program manager overseeing multiple interrelated projects

A program manager overseeing multiple interrelated projects - PMP Prep

Question

A program manager overseeing multiple interrelated projects notices that small schedule delays in one project are causing ripple effects across the entire program. The current risk registers and project plans are maintained independently. What should be done to better handle these cross-project uncertainties?

Answers

Strengthen the risk responses within each individual project
correct

Conduct integrated risk management at the program level
Reassign all project schedules to a single project manager
Increase buffer times in each project’s schedule to account for interdependencies

Explanation

Correct Answer: B. Conduct integrated risk management at the program level.
In complex environments with multiple interdependent projects, risks should be analyzed across projects, not in isolation. Program-level risk management identifies systemic and cascading risks, enabling proactive coordination and strategic decision-making across the portfolio.

Why the other choices are wrong:

A is incorrect because localized responses can’t address cross-cutting issues.
C is incorrect since reassigning all projects to one manager is impractical and doesn’t address systemic risk.
D is incorrect because increasing buffers is a reactive strategy and doesn’t solve the root coordination problem.

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