CompTIA Project+ Practice Test

When should a project manager formally close out a project?

1. Key project team members are needed for other projects.

2. A key stakeholder is satisfied with the project deliverables.

3. The CPI is 1.5 at the midpoint of the project.

4. The project has been terminated unexpectedly.

The correct answer is: The project has been terminated unexpectedly.

Formally closing out a project is a critical process that ensures all aspects of the project are concluded in an orderly manner, including assessing the results and documenting the lessons learned. In the case of an unexpected project termination, even though the project may not have reached its intended conclusions or objectives, it is essential to formally close it out. This includes finalizing all project documentation, addressing any outstanding issues, and ensuring that all stakeholders are informed. By doing so, the project manager can reconcile what has happened with the initial project plan and gather valuable information that can benefit future projects. This is particularly important for maintaining a clear record and preventing any misunderstandings about the project's status or outcomes. In situations where a project has been terminated, it is still crucial to establish a formal conclusion, as this helps to manage the expectations of stakeholders and team members. The other scenarios presented do not justify the formal closure of a project in the same manner. For instance, while the satisfaction of a key stakeholder is important, it does not inherently mean that the project is complete; similarly, the need for team members elsewhere or a favorable cost performance index (CPI) does not mandate a formal closure process like an unexpected termination does.