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Complete Guide to Rolling Wave Planning for PMP Exam

Importance:
Rolling Wave Planning is a crucial component of the PMBOK Guide Seventh Edition. It's a project management technique used for extended planning horizons. It's advantageous for situations where tasks can’t be defined accurately far in advance due to the fast-changing environment or due to uncertainties.

What it is:
Rolling Wave Planning is a form of progressive elaboration planning where the work to be accomplished in the near term is planned in detail, while the work in the future is sketched at a high level. It's a schedule development factor that deals with the planning schedule activities of a project.

How it works:
The details of the work to be performed are planned as the work nears. As more details become available, the work packages for future periods are decomposed into scheduled activities.

Exam Tips:
Understanding the concept: Examiners want to see that you understand the mechanism and the scenario when to use Rolling Wave Planning. Be sure to clarify its use in the context of uncertain or dynamic projects.
Application: Expect to answer questions how Rolling Wave Planning applies, with given scenarios. The key is to identify that work packages for the foreseeable future are detailed, while those for later stages are at a higher level.
Variations: Some questions might come from variations of Rolling Wave Planning, like its use in agile methodologies.

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Rolling Wave Planning practice test

Rolling Wave Planning is an incremental and iterative planning approach used in project management, which involves planning in detail only for the activities that are in the near future. As the project progresses, additional activities are added to the schedule and planned in more detail. This method accounts for the uncertainties and potential changes in project scope and requirements by allowing project managers to adapt to changing needs and prioritize tasks accordingly. Rolling Wave Planning emphasizes schedule flexibility and continuous planning, which is particularly valuable in situations where project requirements are continuously evolving, such as software development and research and development projects.

Time: 5 minutes   Questions: 5

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Project Management Professional Preparation Package (2024)

  • Earn 35 PDUs needed for your PMP certification
  • 12955 Superior-grade Project Management Professional practice questions.
  • Accelerated Mastery: Deep dive into critical topics to fast-track your mastery.
  • Unlock Effortless PMP preparation: 5 full exams.
  • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed: Full refund with no questions if unsatisfied.
  • Bonus: If you upgrade now you get upgraded access to all courses
  • Risk-Free Decision: Start with a 7-day free trial - get premium features at no cost!