PMP-Style Question 3: Sustainable Motivation for a Fatigued Project Team
This post covers a PMP-style scenario that tests your knowledge of team motivation strategies in long-term, high-pressure projects. It emphasizes PMI’s focus on team well-being and sustainable delivery practices.
π Scenario
A project manager is leading a strategic and competitive advantage project for a healthcare organization that is in its testing phase. The team has been working on this project for 6 months, and the morale of the team is low due to the schedule.
β Question
What can the project manager do to motivate the team?
A. Continue to perform the last phase of the project with the project team as this will benefit the organization and provide a competitive edge.
B. Talk to the business team about the project phase and the teamβs commitment, and request a monetary reward for the team.
C. Speak with the project management office (PMO) and request a 2-week extension of the schedule so the team can have rotational time off.
D. Meet with the horizontal team managers to recognize the team members and give rewards and promotions upon completion of the project.
β οΈ Disclaimer: This PMP-style question is presented for educational and commentary purposes only. It is not sourced from any official PMI exam and is not intended to violate any copyright. This content reflects interpretations based on the PMI mindset and principles, and is designed to help learners prepare for the PMP exam. If this question resembles real PMP exam content, it is coincidental and used solely under the doctrine of fair use for academic discussion. No claim of affiliation with or endorsement by PMI is made.
β Correct Answer: C. Speak with the PMO and request a 2-week extension of the schedule so the team can have rotational time off.
π§ PMI emphasizes **sustainable pace** and **respect for team health**.
π The team is demotivated from prolonged stress and tight schedules.
π Giving time off shows empathy and prevents burnout β boosting long-term productivity.
β Why Option C is Correct
This choice addresses the **root cause**: team fatigue. It aligns with Agile principles and the PMI mindset of promoting well-being over short-term gains. Motivated, rested teams deliver better and stay engaged longer.
β Why Other Options Are Incorrect
A. Ignores the team’s morale entirely β pushing through could worsen burnout.
B. Rewards donβt solve fatigue and might set a poor precedent if performance is always incentivized extrinsically.
D. Recognition after completion doesn’t help in the current demotivated phase; it’s delayed and ineffective now.
π Key Takeaway
Motivating teams under schedule pressure requires empathy and sustainability. PMI encourages project managers to create environments that support human needs, not just organizational goals.
If you’re preparing for the PMP exam, remember that sustainable team motivation is more than rewards. It involves listening to your team, managing workload, and creating conditions for long-term success.
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