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

What is the result of failing to differentiate between needs and wants?

1. Increased project satisfaction

2. Potential project misalignment and dissatisfaction

3. Lower project costs

4. Improved stakeholder engagement

The correct answer is: Potential project misalignment and dissatisfaction

Failing to differentiate between needs and wants can lead to potential project misalignment and dissatisfaction. In project management, understanding the distinction between needs (essential requirements for the project to succeed) and wants (desirable features that are not critical) is crucial. When project teams mistakenly prioritize wants over needs, they may allocate resources and efforts ineffectively, compromising the core objectives of the project. For example, if a project focuses on adding extra features that stakeholders want but do not critically need, it may divert attention from ensuring that the fundamental requirements are met. This misalignment can lead to stakeholders feeling that their essential needs are not addressed, resulting in dissatisfaction with the overall project outcomes. Moreover, unless needs are met satisfactorily, stakeholders may perceive the project as unsuccessful, regardless of whether their additional wants were fulfilled. This situation can adversely affect stakeholder engagement in future projects, as they may become skeptical of the project team's understanding of their genuine needs. In contrast, incorrectly associating the other options with the consequences of failing to recognize this distinction does not accurately reflect the risks and challenges. Increased project satisfaction is unlikely if needs are ignored. While lower project costs may occur, it can result in inadequate functionality and undermine project success. Improved stakeholder engagement cannot happen if their