23. A project manager receives a voicemail from a business analyst on the project team. The business analyst indicates that an internal stakeholder is upset that they were not included before the project began. The stakeholder is asking for an addition to the requirements traceability matrix. What should the project manager do to improve the stakeholder relationship?
Answer: A
Engage the stakeholder to solicit more information before responding to the request.
To improve the stakeholder relationship, the project manager should engage the stakeholder directly to understand their concerns better and gather additional information regarding the requested change. This proactive approach fosters communication and helps to rebuild trust.
A) Engage the stakeholder to solicit more information before responding to the request
This option is correct as it emphasizes the importance of communication and understanding the stakeholder's perspective. By engaging the stakeholder, the project manager can clarify their concerns and ensure that their needs are adequately addressed, which can lead to a more positive relationship.
B) Initiate a project change request so the change control board (CCB) can decide if it is in scope
While initiating a change request might seem appropriate, it does not directly address the relationship issue with the stakeholder. This option may overlook the need for initial dialogue and could exacerbate the stakeholder's frustration by making them feel sidelined in the decision-making process.
C) Update the stakeholder engagement plan to ensure the stakeholder is included in the project stakeholder list
This option suggests a long-term solution but does not immediately resolve the current issue of the stakeholder feeling excluded. Updating the engagement plan is beneficial for future projects, but it lacks the necessary immediate action to address the stakeholder's current concerns.
D) Consult the project scope document to make sure the addition is in scope
Consulting the project scope document is a good practice; however, it fails to engage with the stakeholder directly. This option does not prioritize relationship-building and may lead to further dissatisfaction if the stakeholder feels their input is being overlooked.
Conclusion
Engaging the stakeholder to solicit more information is the most effective approach to improving the relationship and addressing their concerns. The other options, while relevant to project management practices, do not prioritize immediate communication and understanding, which are crucial for maintaining a positive stakeholder relationship. By choosing to engage, the project manager demonstrates a commitment to collaboration and responsiveness.