Project Management MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Project Management - Download Free PDF

The Correct answer is ​Douglas McGregor

Key Points

• In 1960 Douglas McGregor formulated Theory X and Theory Y suggesting two aspects of human behavior at work.
• one of which is negative called Theory X.
• the other is positive called Theory Y.
• Theory X presents a pessimistic view of employees' nature and behavior at work, while Theory Y presents an optimistic view of the employees’ nature and behavior at work.

The Correct answer is Beta.

Key Points

• In the PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) chart, the activity time distribution is typically represented by the Beta distribution.
• This distribution is used to model uncertain variables, such as the time required to complete specific activities in a project.
• The Beta distribution allows for variability and uncertainty in activity durations, making it suitable for estimating the expected duration of each activity in the project
• PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) uses 3 cases:
  • Most Optimistic
  • Most Pessimistic
  • Most likely durations

In the standard PERT analysis, the distribution assumed for the activity times is a Beta distribution.

The Correct answer is Strategic Planning.

Key Points

• SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool used to identify and evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats involved in a project or business venture.
• It involves assessing both internal factors (Strengths and Weaknesses) and external factors (Opportunities and Threats) that can impact the success of the endeavor.

SWOT Analysis consists of four essential components:

• Strengths:
  • Strengths highlight what an organization excels at and what sets it apart from competitors.
  • These can include a strong brand, a loyal customer base, a robust balance sheet, unique technology, and other positive attributes. 
  • For instance, a hedge fund might possess a proprietary trading strategy that consistently outperforms the market, offering a competitive edge.
• Weaknesses:
  • ​Weaknesses represent areas where an organization falls short and needs improvement to operate at its best.
  • Examples include a weak brand, high employee turnover, excessive debt levels, an inefficient supply chain, or insufficient capital.
  • Identifying weaknesses helps a business address areas that may hinder its competitiveness.
• Opportunities:
  • Opportunities refer to favorable external factors that can provide a competitive advantage.
  • For instance, if a country reduces tariffs, a car manufacturer may seize the opportunity to export vehicles to a new market, thereby increasing sales and market share.
• Threats:
  • ​Threats are external factors that can potentially harm an organization.
  • Examples include natural disasters like drought affecting a wheat-producing company's crop yield, rising material costs, increased competition, or a tight labor supply.
  • Recognizing threats allows a business to proactively address challenges and mitigate potential risks.

The Correct answer is Authority structure.

Key Points

• Scalar Chain-
  • In Library Management it means an unbroken line of authority from top to bottom level.
  • The line of authority serves as a means of communication within an organization.
  • Effective communication is vital within organizations, and the scalar chain principle focuses on the flow of communication from top management down to the lowest-ranking employees.
  • It represents a chain of supervisors linking top-level management to those at the lowest levels of the organization.
  • The scalar chain principle establishes a designated path for information to follow, ensuring clarity and minimizing ambiguity.
  • According to this principle, information should flow systematically from supervisors to employees in lower positions, thus maintaining order and facilitating efficient communication throughout the organization.

Additional Information

• GANG-PLANK is the term used in concert with the scalar chain. 
• Gang Plank refers to an arrangement in which two managers working at the same level can communicate with each other directly for quick communication.
• The scalar chain refers to the chain of superiors ranging from the ultimate authority to the lowest level in the organization.
• It should be short-circuited and not carried to the extent it proves detrimental to the organization, this concept is known as Gang-Plank.

The Correct answer is Kelly and Walker.

Key Points

• The critical path method (CPM) was developed in the late 1950s by Morgan R. Walker of DuPont and James E. Kelley Jr. of Remington Rand.
• Kelley credited the term "critical path" to the developers of the Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT), developed around the same time by Booz Allen Hamilton and the US Navy.
• While CPM's original program and approach are no longer in use, the term is broadly applied to any approach analyzing a project network logic diagram, applicable to various projects like construction, aerospace, software development, research, product development, engineering, and plant maintenance.

​Key Steps in Critical Path Method:

• Activity Specification
• Activity Sequence Establishment
• Network Diagram
• Estimates for Each Activity
• Identification of the Critical Path:
  • Earliest Start Time (ES): The earliest time an activity can start after completing dependent activities.
  • Earliest Finish Time (EF): ES + activity duration.
  • Latest Finish Time (LF): The latest time an activity can finish without project delay.
  • Latest Start Time (LS): LF − activity duration.

 Additional Information

• ​​Henry L Gantt in1917 developed a system of bar charts for scheduling and reporting a project. These charts were later known as Gantt Charts.

​PERT:

• The program evaluation and review technique (PERT) is a statistical tool used in project management, which was designed to analyze and represent the tasks involved in completing a given project.
• PERT was developed in 1958 by U S Navy to plan and control the Polaris Missile Program.
• Initially PERT stood for Program Evaluation Research Task, but by 1959 was renamed.
• PERT has defined four types of time required to accomplish an activity:
  • Optimistic time.
  • Pessimistic time.
  • Most likely time.
  • Expected time

The Correct answer is A - III, B - I, C - II, D - IV.

Key Points

• PERT:​
  • The Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) is a statistical tool that was first developed in the United States in the year 1958.
  • This method is used to analyze the tasks involved in the project by breaking down the individual tasks which helps in the analysis.
  • The Program Evaluation Review technique (PERT) can be implemented in three steps
    • The first step is to determine the tasks required in the project and the order in which these tasks need to be performed.
    • The next step is to create a networking diagram that forms the chart.
    • The last step is to determine the course of the project and the slacks in time while completing the project.
  • PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) involves events, activities, dummy activities, and merge events in its representation of project workflows.

​

• DFD:
  • ​A data flow diagram (DFD) is a graphical representation that uses standardized symbols to illustrate the flow of data in a business's operations.
  • It is often part of formal methodologies like Structured Systems Analysis and Design Method (SSADM).
  • While DFDs may appear similar to flow charts or Unified Modeling Language (UML) diagrams, their purpose is not to depict the intricacies of software logic.
  • Instead, they provide a visual overview of how data moves within a system.
  • DFD (Data Flow Diagram) is used to represent the physical and logical descriptions of a system, showing how data moves within a system.
  • DFD components: DFD consists of processes, flows, warehouses, and terminators. 

• CPM Chart-
  • The Critical Path Method (CPM) was developed in the 1950s by Morgan R. Walker of DuPont and James E. Kelley Jr. of Remington Rand and was first used in missile-defense Construction Projects.
  • It is a step-by-step technique for process planning that defines critical and non-critical tasks with the goal of preventing time-frame problems and process bottlenecks.
  • CPM charts are similar to PERT charts and are sometimes known as PERT/CPM. 
  • CPM is best utilized for repetitive and non-complex projects when time estimates can be made with some measure of certainty.
  • CPM (Critical Path Method) typically involves generating two pairs of time/cost estimates: one for a normal schedule and another for a crash schedule.​
• LibQUAL+ 
  • It is a tool for measuring library users' perceptions of service quality and identifies the gaps between minimum desired and perceived expectations of service.
  • The LibQUAL+ project was funded by the US Department of Education's fund for the improvement of post-secondary education.
  • The LibQUAL+ survey was developed jointly by the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) and Texas A and M University Library.

The correct answer is D, E, A, C, B.

Key PointsThe basic steps of system analysis from the point of view of problem-solving typically follow a logical sequence. Here's the correct order:

• Definition and formulation of the problem: The first step is to clearly define the problem that needs to be solved and formulate it in a way that makes it understandable and actionable.
• Development of alternative solutions: Once the problem is defined, the next step is to brainstorm and develop various alternative solutions or approaches to address the problem.
• Construction of models that formalize the alternatives: After generating alternative solutions, we construct models or representations that formalize and detail these alternatives, making it easier to analyze and compare them.
• Determination of the cost/effectiveness of the alternatives:  Then assess the cost-effectiveness of each alternative. This step involves evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of each solution in terms of costs, benefits, and potential risks.
• Presentation of recommendations: Finally, based on the analysis of the alternatives and their cost-effectiveness, we present recommendations to stakeholders or decision-makers, suggesting the best course of action to address the defined problem.

Additional Information

• Systems analysis
  • ​It is the systematic examination of a procedure or business, aimed at understanding its goals and purposes.
  • It involves creating efficient systems and procedures to achieve these objectives.
  • Alternatively, it's seen as a problem-solving method that dissects a system into its components, assessing how effectively these parts function and collaborate to fulfill their intended purpose.

The Correct answer is System Monitoring.

Key Points

• System Monitoring is not typically considered a phase in the development of a system in System Analysis.
• The main phases are usually System Analysis, System Design, System Implementation, and System Maintenance.
• System Development Life Cycle:
  • ​The System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) offers a structured framework for system building, encompassing key stages such as Planning, Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Maintenance. 
• Stage 1: Plan:
  • ​The Planning stage establishes the foundation for the entire SDLC.
  • It involves delineating system goals, defining project scope, setting objectives, establishing timelines, and allocating resources.
  • This phase ensures alignment with organizational needs and provides a clear direction for subsequent stages.
• Stage 2: Analyze:
  • ​The Analysis stage focuses on gathering and understanding system requirements.
  • Activities include interviews, studying existing processes, and identifying stakeholders' needs.
  • The information collected serves as a basis for designing a system that meets user expectations and addresses organizational challenges.
• Stage 3: Design:
  • ​System Design is a pivotal stage where requirements from the Analysis phase are translated into a detailed technical plan.
  • This includes designing the system's architecture, database structure, and user interface, as well as defining system components.
  • The Design stage sets the groundwork for subsequent development and implementation phases.
• Stage 4: Develop:
  • ​The Development stage involves coding and programming based on design specifications.
  • evelopers create code, establish database structures, and implement required functionalities.
  • Rigorous testing and quality assurance ensure accuracy, performance, and adherence to design requirements.​
• Stage 5: Implement:
  • ​Implementation deploys the developed system into the production environment.
  • Activities include system installation, data migration, end-user training, and infrastructure configuration.
  • Careful planning and coordination minimize disruptions, ensuring a smooth transition from the old to the new system.​
• Stage 6: Maintain:
  • ​Maintenance is an ongoing stage encompassing monitoring, management, and enhancement of system performance and functionality.
  • Activities include bug fixes, updates, security patches, and addressing user feedback.
  • Regular maintenance ensures the system remains reliable, secure, and adaptable to changing business needs.

The correct answer is Dupont Company.

Key Points

• CPM Chart-
  • The Critical Path Method (CPM) was developed in the 1950s by Morgan R. Walker of DuPont and James E. Kelley Jr. of Remington Rand and was first used in missile-defense Construction Projects.
  • It is a step-by-step technique for process planning that defines critical and non-critical tasks with the goal of preventing time-frame problems and process bottlenecks.
  • CPM charts are similar to PERT charts and are sometimes known as PERT/CPM. 
  • CPM is best utilized for repetitive and non-complex projects when time estimates can be made with some measure of certainty.

Additional Information

• Gantt Chart-
  • It was the most popular technique for project scheduling Prior to the development of PERT and CPM, which was developed by Henry L. Gantt in around 1900.
  • It illustrates the duration of activities in a project (start and finish dates of the terminal elements) and summary elements of a project.
  • It is a matrix that lists all the tasks to be performed on the vertical axis.
  • Gantt Chart is easily comprehended for small projects that fit on a single shit or screen but it can become unwieldy for projects with more than about 30 activities.
• PERT Chart-
  • A  Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) Chart is a tool that facilitates decision-making.
  • It was first developed by the United States Navy in 1958, commonly used in conjunction with the critical path method (CPM).
  • A PERT chart presents a graphic illustration of a project as a network diagram consisting of numbered nodes, events, or milestones in the project linked by labeled vectors representing tasks in the project.
  • PERT is particularly useful for non-repetitive and complex projects in which time estimates are uncertain.

The Correct answer is A - II, B - IV, C - I, D - III.

Key Points

• MBO
  • The term Management by objectives is coined by Peter Drucker in 1954 in his book, The Practice Management.
  • Management By Objectives (MBO) is a tool by which managers can improve their performance and
    increase their effectiveness.
  • There are three steps involved in the MBO process.
    • Setting objectives in each key result area,
    • Action planning, and
    • Performance review. 
• PEST:
  • PEST analysis, an acronym for "Political, Economic, Socio-cultural, and Technological," was formulated by Francis Augiler in 1967 as a framework for environmental scanning.
  • This framework outlines macro-environmental factors crucial for the environmental scanning aspect of strategic management.
  • It serves as a strategic tool to comprehend market growth or decline, business positioning, potential opportunities, and operational directions.
• CPM:
  • ​The Critical Path Method (CPM) is a procedural approach to process planning, meticulously identifying critical and non-critical tasks to mitigate potential time-frame issues and process bottlenecks.
  • Originating in the 1950s, it was developed by Morgan R. Walker of DuPont and James E. Kelley Jr. of Remington Rand, initially applied to missile-defense construction projects.
  • CPM charts, often referred to as PERT/CPM charts, share similarities with PERT charts.
  • CPM is most effective in scenarios involving repetitive and non-complex projects, especially when time estimates can be reasonably certain
• SWOT:
  • ​SWOT Analysis, an acronym for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats, was conceptualized by Albert Humphrey in 1960.
  • This framework serves as a tool for assessing competitive positioning and formulating strategic plans.
  • The methodology entails identifying the strengths and weaknesses of an organization or service, along with opportunities and threats posed by environmental trends.
  • In the library context, SWOT analysis plays a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of library operations.

The Correct answer is ​B and D only.

Key Points

• PEST Analysis:
  • ​PEST analysis, encompassing political, economic, social, and technological factors, is a management tool employed by organizations to evaluate significant external influences affecting their operations.
  • This approach aims to enhance competitiveness in the market by thoroughly examining key areas denoted by the acronym.
  • PEST Analysis Components:
    • ​Political: This aspect of PEST analysis delves into the impact of government policies and legislative changes on the economy, industry, and the organization. 
    • Economic: In the economic realm, PEST analysis focuses on factors like interest and exchange rates, economic growth, supply and demand dynamics, inflation, and recession indicators.
    • Social: Social considerations in a PEST analysis encompass demographics, age distribution, cultural attitudes, and trends in the workplace and lifestyle.
    • Technological: The technological component examines the role and development of technologies within the sector and organization. 
• Benefits of PEST analysis:
  • Identification of Opportunities
  • Strategic Decision-Making
  • Adaptation to Change
  • Risk Management
  • Heightened attention to potential threats and dangers.
  • Enhanced Market Intelligence
  • More effective long-term strategic planning.
  • Scenario Planning
  • Improved Stakeholder Communication
  • Global Perspective

The correct answer is Strength and Weakness.

Key Points SWOT analysis:

• SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis is a framework used to evaluate a company's competitive position and to develop strategic planning.
• SWOT analysis assesses internal and external factors and current and future potential.
• Strengths and weaknesses are usually considered internal, while opportunities and threats are usually considered external

​

• A SWOT analysis is designed to facilitate a realistic, fact-based, data-driven look at the strengths and weaknesses of an organization, initiatives, or within its industry.
• The organization needs to keep the analysis accurate by avoiding preconceived beliefs or gray areas and instead focusing on real-life contexts. Companies should use it as a guide and not necessarily as a prescription.

The Correct answer is (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)

Key Points

• Six Sigma:
  • ​Six Sigma is a set of techniques for the improvement of quality processes and it was developed by Bill Smith of Motorola in 1986
  • Six Sigma seeks to improve the quality of process outputs by identifying and removing the causes of defects (errors) and minimizing variability in manufacturing and business processes.
  • The six Sigma project has five stages, i.e., Define – Measure – Analyze-Improve-Control.
  • Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control. This process is also known as DMAIC (pronounced “duh-may-ik”), its acronym.
  • Six Sigma is a process-centered methodology taking quality improvement to the next level.

• Define:
  • I​n this initial phase, crucial improvement opportunities are selected based on their significance.
  • The focus includes mapping the process, determining scope, defining the ultimate goal, and comprehending the impact of the problem on stakeholders.
  • Crafting a precise problem statement is essential to kickstart the DMAIC cycle.
• Measure:
  • The Measure phase involves establishing baselines to evaluate process performance.
  • Sound benchmarks are crucial for monitoring improvements, making this stage pivotal.
• Analyze:
  • During this phase, the objective is to pinpoint and test the root causes of problems, ensuring that improvement efforts address issues at their core.
• Improve:
  • Armed with the analysis and data, this phase focuses on implementing improvements to address identified problems comprehensively.
• Control:
  • Once changes are implemented successfully and are effectively enhancing operations, the Control phase is initiated to ensure the sustained effectiveness of the improved process.

The Correct answer is the Longest route.

Key Points

• The Critical Path Method (CPM) stands as a crucial project management tool, outlining the longest series of tasks necessary for the project's overall completion.
• The Critical Path Method (CPM) was developed in the 1950s by Morgan R. Walker of DuPont and James E. Kelley Jr. of Remington Rand and was first used in missile-defense Construction Projects.
• It is a step-by-step technique for process planning that defines critical and non-critical tasks with the goal of preventing time-frame problems and process bottlenecks.
• CPM charts are similar to PERT charts and are sometimes known as PERT/CPM. 

Additional Information

• The critical Path Method (CPM) involves several key concepts that contribute to its formula:
  • Earliest Start Time (ES): The initial possible start time for a task, considering task dependencies.
  • Latest Start Time (LS): The latest permissible start time for a task without risking project timeline delays.
  • Earliest Finish Time (EF): The earliest possible completion time for an activity, considering its duration and earliest start time.
  • Latest Finish Time (LF): The latest allowable completion time for an activity, considering its duration and latest start time.
  • Float: Also known as slack, it indicates the flexibility in delaying a task without affecting its sequence or the overall project schedule. Tasks on the critical path have zero float since they cannot be delayed.

The Correct answer is Executive Committee.

Key Points

• The power dynamics of committees in a library can vary based on the organization's structure and policies
• The Executive Committee tends to be the most powerful.
  • The Executive Committee holds delegated powers and operates autonomously within the established policies and objectives without the necessity of reporting every action to the library authority.
  • It possesses the freedom to take independent actions and has the authority to appoint sub-committees for the execution or advisory functions related to its responsibilities.
  • This type of committee is occasionally referred to as the Management Committee.​

Additional Information

• Self-Perpetuation Committee:
  • ​The Self-Perpetuation Committee is established according to statutory provisions, with its constitution, powers, and functions outlined in the Act.
  • It holds the authority to govern and oversee the library functioning under its jurisdiction, serving as the ultimate decision-making body.
• Reporting Committee:
  • ​A Reporting Committee operates within defined boundaries, allowing it to formulate policies.
  • Its decisions and actions within these established limits do not require confirmation from the higher authority; instead, they are reported to the authority.
• Recommending Committee:
  • ​A Recommending Committee possesses limited power and can only suggest specific proposals or actions.
  • The authority has the discretion to accept these recommendations and take appropriate actions.
• Ad-hoc Committee:
  • ​An Ad-hoc Committee is a specialized committee formed to undertake specific tasks within a defined timeframe.
  • It operates independently and makes prompt decisions.
• Sub-Committee:
  • ​A Sub-Committee is formed to aid the management process, consisting of a few members with expertise and insight.
  • These sub-committees streamline discussions, enabling efficient handling of tasks within the designated timeframe.
  • Sub-committees address specific issues such as book selection, maintenance, marketing services, and resource generation.
  • Their reports are presented to the library committee for discussion and final decision-making, helping expedite the decision-making process.