I am seeing a lot of questions about conflict resolution between team members who prefer Waterfall and those who want to stay Agile. What is the "correct" PMI answer when two senior developers are arguing over documentation levels? Should the PM always side with the Agile approach, or is there a middle ground that the PMP exam expects us to choose? I am struggling with the 'People' domain scenarios like this.
3 answers
In the world of PMP, the answer is almost never "side with one person." PMI loves "Collaborate/Problem Solve." When it comes to documentation in a hybrid environment, the PM's role is to facilitate a discussion to find the "bare minimum" documentation required for compliance while maintaining Agile speed. The exam wants to see you as a servant leader who encourages the team to develop their own "Working Agreement." If you see an option that involves the team coming together to decide on a solution, that is almost always the winner over the PM making a unilateral decision or forcing one methodology.
Rebecca, that's a great point! But what if the conflict is impacting the sprint timeline? Would you still wait for a "Working Agreement" or would the PM need to step in more directly?
Always look for the answer that involves "Communication" and "Face-to-Face" interaction. Avoiding the conflict or escalating to a functional manager is usually the wrong choice.
Precisely, Pamela. Escalation is a "last resort" in PMP land. Always try to solve it within the team first using open dialogue and emotional intelligence.
Kevin, even if it impacts the timeline, the PM should first try to facilitate. However, if the exam question mentions a "critical blocker" or a "deadline at risk," you might look for an answer where the PM removes the impediment. But remember, "Servant Leadership" means you don't give orders; you clear the path. Facilitating a quick "retrospective" or "stand-up" to address the conflict is usually the most "Agile" and "PMI-correct" way to handle it.