PMI Test Assumptions

PDF versionPDF version

Note: This is the list of general assumptions for the PMI 4th edition test. All bets are off after the test is updated....

  • PMs are empowered and in control
  • PMs always follow the PMBOK
  • PMs are working large projects (+100 people, multi-national, long-term) and are there from beginning to end
  • PMs but the best interests of the project ahead of themselves,(their careers) or even of their stakeholders
  • PMs are operating within a Matrixed Organization
  • PM's own the reserves (contingency, management) and are the managers of reserve (can release as they choose)
  • PMO's exist and have authority over an organization's project
  • Organizations retain all historical project information (work, costs, risks, OPAs, etc.)
  • Critical Path - Assume Finish to Start Activities
  • Critical Path - Assume "Total Float"
  • Bar Charts assumed to not identify relationships between tasks
  • Schedule compression is always part of the initial schedule development (prior to baselining)
  • For earned value, burn rate is assumed to be linear based (flat line)
  • A Project Management Plan is more than just a Gantt chart (documents "how" more than "what")
  • Gold-plating (adding extra features/feature creep) is not supported / allowed
  • You should assume you are the buyer unless specifically told otherwise
  • You should assume you are the HR Supervisor (as opposed to the functional manager, ex: You don't need to budget for merit increases, etc.)
  • PMI assumes the PM will exert Leadership (esp in conflict situations)
  • PMI test assumes PM will have team-building exercises.
  • Test assumes the project has multiple stakeholders.