CSM Project Management & Resource Allocation 2

Question 1

A software project is experiencing resource contention between two parallel workstreams. Which technique best resolves scheduling conflicts without extending the overall deadline?

Accepted Answer

Resource smoothing

Answer

Resource smoothing adjusts activities within float to resolve contention without altering the project end date, unlike resource leveling which may extend it.

Question 2

In a software project using a responsibility assignment matrix (RAM), the 'A' in RACI stands for:

Accepted Answer

Accountable

Answer

Accountable (A) designates the single person who owns the outcome and is answerable for task completion, distinct from those Responsible for doing the work.

Question 3

Which project scheduling technique identifies the sequence of tasks that determines the minimum project duration?

Accepted Answer

Critical Path Method (CPM)

Answer

CPM identifies the longest path through the network of project activities, determining the shortest possible project duration.

Question 4

A CSM is managing a team where a senior developer is over-allocated at 140% capacity for three consecutive weeks. The FIRST corrective action should be:

Accepted Answer

Reassign lower-priority tasks to under-utilized team members

Answer

Reassigning tasks to under-utilized team members is the least disruptive first step that balances load without additional cost or scope changes.

Question 5

What does a negative Schedule Variance (SV) indicate in Earned Value Management?

Accepted Answer

The project is behind schedule

Answer

SV = EV − PV; a negative value means less work has been accomplished than planned, indicating the project is behind schedule.

(CSM) Certified Software Manager Practice Test

(CSM) Certified Software Manager Practice Test

CSM Project Management & Resource Allocation 2