PMI Scheduling Professional Certification (PMI-SP) Practice Exam

What does root cause analysis focus on?

1. Identifying trends within project data.

2. Determining the basic underlying reason for a variance or defect.

3. Evaluating the capabilities of team members.

4. Assessing financial implications of project changes.

The correct answer is: Determining the basic underlying reason for a variance or defect.

Root cause analysis is a systematic process used to identify the fundamental underlying reasons for a problem or a variance in a project. It goes beyond merely addressing the symptoms of an issue and instead seeks to understand the primary reasons that led to the defect or discrepancy. This analysis aims to uncover the core factors that contribute to problems, allowing project managers and teams to implement effective solutions that prevent recurrence and improve project outcomes. By focusing on the basic underlying reason for a variance or defect, root cause analysis enables more sustainable long-term improvements rather than temporary fixes. This approach is crucial in project management, as it helps in fostering a culture of continuous improvement and learning. In contrast, identifying trends within project data is focused on analyzing patterns over time rather than pinpointing specific causes of issues. Evaluating the capabilities of team members pertains to assessing individual skills and competencies, while assessing financial implications of project changes involves understanding the budgetary impacts rather than diving into the specifics of problem causes. Each of these aspects has its significance in project management but does not specifically target the core intent of root cause analysis.