International Project Management Association (IPMA) Practice Exam

Which statement about project stakeholders is true?

1. They are limited to the project manager, the customer, and the sponsor

2. They are interested parties outside the performing organization

3. They have needs that should be identified and considered

4. All share a common desire to see the project completed successfully

The correct answer is: They have needs that should be identified and considered

The statement that project stakeholders have needs that should be identified and considered is true because acknowledging and addressing stakeholders' needs is fundamental to effective project management. Stakeholders encompass a broad range of individuals or groups who have an interest in the project, including team members, clients, suppliers, and even community members affected by the project. Each of these stakeholders may have unique expectations, requirements, and interests that can influence the project's success. By identifying and considering these needs early in the project lifecycle, a project manager can foster positive relationships, enhance collaboration, and mitigate risks associated with stakeholder dissatisfaction or conflict. This proactive approach leads to a more inclusive planning process, ultimately increasing the likelihood of project acceptance and success upon completion. On the other hand, stakeholders are not limited solely to the project manager, the customer, and the sponsor, as stated in the first choice. There is a diverse array of interested parties involved in or affected by the project. The second choice suggests that stakeholders are only those outside the performing organization, which overlooks internal stakeholders who play critical roles in project delivery. Lastly, while it's true that many stakeholders desire project success, not all stakeholders may share this common desire, as their priorities and objectives can differ significantly based on their vested interests.