A project manager submits several requests to purchase required hardware and knows from previous experience that this kind of procurement usually results in disputes between the company and its suppliers. How can the project manager mitigate this risk in the request for proposal (RFP) with suppliers?
Correct Answer: A
The RFP is a document that solicits proposals from potential suppliers by describing the project scope, requirements, and evaluation criteria. It is important to ensure that the RFP is clear, accurate, and legally sound to avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and disputes with the suppliers. Asking the legal team to review the RFP can help the project manager mitigate this risk by ensuring that the RFP complies with the relevant laws, regulations, and contractual terms, and that it protects the interests and rights of both parties12.
The other options are not as effective or relevant for mitigating this risk:
* B. Ask the project team to submit the RFP: The project team may not have the necessary expertise or authority to prepare or approve the RFP. Asking the project team to submit the RFP may result in delays, errors, or inconsistencies in the RFP, which could increase the risk of disputes with the suppliers3.
* C. Request approval of the RFP from the project sponsor: The project sponsor is the person or group who provides the financial resources and support for the project. The project sponsor may not be directly involved in the procurement process or have the legal knowledge to review the RFP. Requesting approval of the RFP from the project sponsor may not address the risk of disputes with the suppliers, and may also create unnecessary bureaucracy or dependency.
* D. Request approval of the RFP from management: Management is the group of individuals who direct and control the organization. Management may not have the time, interest, or expertise to review the RFP. Requesting approval of the RFP from management may not mitigate the risk of disputes with the suppliers, and may also cause delays, conflicts, or micromanagement.
References:
1: Project Procurement Management - PMI 2: Request for Proposal (RFP) - Project Management Knowledge 3: Project Team - Project Management Knowledge : [Project Sponsor - Project Management Knowledge] : [Management - Project Management Knowledge]