Six Sigma Global Institute (SSGI) Project Management Professional Certification Practice Exam

What does the term 'decomposition' refer to in project management?

1. Creating timelines for projects

2. Breaking a project down into manageable tasks

3. Analyzing project risks

4. Reviewing completed project phases

The correct answer is: Breaking a project down into manageable tasks

The term 'decomposition' in project management specifically refers to the process of breaking a project down into smaller, more manageable tasks or components. This approach allows project managers to work systematically, ensuring that all aspects of the project are addressed and that the workload is appropriately distributed. By decomposing the project, it becomes easier to estimate time and resources, assign tasks to team members, and monitor progress throughout the project lifecycle. Breaking projects into smaller parts enhances clarity and focus, enabling teams to tackle each segment with attention to detail. This method is a core principle of project management methodologies like the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), where the entire project is divided into hierarchical levels, ultimately leading to individually manageable tasks that contribute to the overall objectives of the project. The other options, while related to project management, do not encapsulate the essence of decomposition. Creating timelines focuses more on scheduling; analyzing project risks involves identifying potential issues; and reviewing completed project phases is related to project evaluation rather than breaking down the work into smaller components.