Stakeholder Conflict Resolution

Correct Answer: Arrange a meeting between the heads of the two departments to clarify the issues and identify potential solutions.

Arranging a meeting between the heads of the conflicting departments is the best first step as a project manager. This allows for open communication and collaboration to identify the root causes of the conflict and work towards potential solutions. Avoiding intervention and letting the departments resolve the conflict on their own is not a proactive approach and may lead to further escalation, putting the project at greater risk. Favoring one department over another based on traditional influence is biased and does not address the underlying issues causing the conflict. This approach may lead to resentment and further complications. Reporting the conflict to the CEO and asking for an immediate resolution may be premature without first attempting to understand and address the issue at the project level. Escalating too quickly can undermine the project manager's authority and problem-solving abilities.

Correct Answer: Calmly intervene, encouraging a private discussion between the two stakeholders and refocusing the meeting.

The best course of action for a project manager when disagreements occur in a team meeting is to prevent the escalation of the conflict in the meeting itself. It's crucial to maintain a professional environment where everyone's viewpoint is respected. Hence, intervening calmly is the most suitable approach. A project manager should encourage a private discussion between the arguing parties which can help in resolving disputes in a more civil manner and also remind the attendees about the meeting's focus. The second answer suggesting yelling at stakeholders is unprofessional and disrespectful. It neither solves the problem nor helps in maintaining a positive team environment Asking the team to vote on who is correct may cause further divisions within the team and is not a constructive way to handle conflicts. Lastly, canceling the meeting because of a disagreement is a poor decision since it might be interpreted as avoiding conflict rather than handling it. This can also cause delays in the project timeline and hinder progress due to unresolved issues.

Correct Answer: Escalate the issue to a higher authority or sponsor for resolution.

In a situation where two stakeholders can't agree and refuse to compromise, it is best to escalate the issue to a higher authority or a project sponsor for resolution. This is the appropriate step in project management, as it ensures the decision making doesn't stop and reduces the chance of conflict escalating. Alternatively, holding an all-hands meeting to publicly air grievances could lead to a hostile work environment and doesn't guarantee a resolution. Randomly selecting a priority without considering the consequences could lead to poor project outcomes and doesn't respect the perspectives of the stakeholders in disagreement. Lastly, continually insisting they reach a compromise without involving any other party only sustains the deadlock, and doesn't consider that a third party may offer a different and helpful perspective on the issue.