Dependency Identification

During project planning, the project manager assigns the database development to happen alongside the system interface development which is not usually done. This can be termed as a 'Discretionary Dependency' since this sequence is chosen based on the project manager's discretion and can be rearranged as per needs. A mandatory dependency, on the other hand, is a legal or contractual sequence of tasks that must be followed during project elements execution. 'External Dependency' relates to tasks outside of the project and an 'Internal Dependency' is something already within the project. Based on the shared context, these are not applicable here. Therefore the remaining best fit is 'Discretionary Dependency'.

This scenario demonstrates a Resource Dependency. A Resource Dependency occurs when a specific resource (in this case, the key team member) is required for a task or project to proceed. The project manager needs to alter the schedule because the project cannot continue in the absence of this team member's input. This dependency is not based on the nature of the work itself (which would be a Mandatory Dependency), nor is it a preference (which would be a Discretionary Dependency). Instead, it is directly tied to the availability of a specific resource, making it a clear example of a Resource Dependency. Resource Dependencies often require careful management and can significantly impact project timelines, as seen in this situation where the schedule must be adjusted due to the unexpected leave of the key team member.

In a Start-to-Start (SS) dependency, the initiation of one task is dependent on the initiation of another task. In the given scenario, the graphic design team needs to start creating marketing visuals while the product team is still working on the product. This means the design team's work can start once the product team's work has started, even though neither task has to finish before the other. This is characteristic of a Start-to-Start relationship in project management, where two activities can begin simultaneously or one shortly after the other begins.