Which of the following statements is true regarding brainstorming and lateral thinking?
A. They are forms of expert judgment used to help define and develop requirements and develop the project scope statement.
B. They are tools and techniques used to elaborate the product scope description.
C. They are group decision-making techniques, which are a tool and technique of the Collect Requirements process.
D. They are alternatives identification techniques, which are a tool and technique of the Define Scope process.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: D. They are alternatives identification techniques, which are a tool and technique of the Define Scope process.
Explanation:
Brainstorming and lateral thinking are creative techniques used to generate ideas and explore multiple solutions to problems. In the context of project management, especially as outlined in the PMBOK® Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge) by the Project Management Institute (PMI), these techniques fall under the category of alternatives identification.
Why Option D is Correct:
Alternatives identification is a tool and technique of the Define Scope process. This process is concerned with developing a detailed project and product scope, which includes evaluating various ways of accomplishing the project’s objectives. Brainstorming and lateral thinking help identify and analyze different approaches, solutions, or methods for meeting project requirements. These techniques encourage innovative thinking and help in exploring possibilities that might not be immediately obvious.
- Brainstorming involves group collaboration to rapidly generate a wide range of ideas or solutions. It helps uncover potential requirements, features, or deliverables that might otherwise be overlooked.
- Lateral thinking, coined by Edward de Bono, encourages solving problems indirectly and creatively, often by viewing them from a new or unconventional perspective.
Both are instrumental when the project team needs to think beyond traditional solutions, particularly in early planning phases.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- A: Expert judgment is a different tool used throughout many processes; brainstorming and lateral thinking are not classified as expert judgment.
- B: These techniques are not specifically tools to elaborate the product scope description.
- C: While they may involve groups, brainstorming and lateral thinking are not classified as group decision-making techniques in the PMBOK®.
Thus, D is the most accurate according to PMI’s standards and project scope management principles.
