International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) Practice Exam

What is the phase where the project management plan, including schedules, costs, risks, and scope, is developed?

1. Design

2. Execution

3. Planning

4. Closing

The correct answer is: Planning

The phase where the project management plan is developed is known as the Planning phase. This stage is critical because it lays the groundwork for the entire project by defining how it will be executed, monitored, and controlled. During the Planning phase, project managers create detailed schedules outlining task timelines and dependencies, establish budgets that address all associated costs, identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies, and articulate the project's scope to ensure all stakeholders have a clear understanding of what is included. The outcomes of the Planning phase serve as a roadmap for the project team, guiding them through the Execution phase where the actual work is carried out. In contrast, the Design phase focuses more on the specific details and the blueprint of the project rather than overall planning. The Execution phase is where the planned tasks are implemented, and the Closing phase wraps up the project once it has been completed. Therefore, the emphasis on developing all aspects of the project in the Planning phase is key to successful project management.