Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) Practice Exam

Which project management tool would help track optimistic, probable, and pessimistic timelines during the implementation of a new HR Information System?

1. Gantt chart

2. Critical path analysis

3. Scenario planning table

4. Program evaluation and review technique

The correct answer is: Program evaluation and review technique

The Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) is particularly suited for projects where time estimates are uncertain, making it an excellent choice for tracking optimistic, probable, and pessimistic timelines. PERT allows project managers to use three different duration estimates for each task: the best-case scenario (optimistic), the most likely duration (probable), and the worst-case scenario (pessimistic). This approach provides a more comprehensive understanding of the project's timeline by incorporating uncertainty and variability in task completion. By applying PERT, HR professionals can effectively manage the complexities associated with the implementation of a new HR Information System, recognizing potential deviations from the expected schedule and allowing for better planning and resource allocation. Furthermore, this method helps in calculating the expected time to completion and identifying critical tasks that could impact the overall project timeline. In contrast, other tools, while useful in project management, do not specifically provide the same level of detail regarding timeline uncertainty. Gantt charts primarily visualize task timelines without explicitly addressing varying estimates. Critical path analysis focuses on identifying essential tasks and their durations but does not incorporate the optimistic and pessimistic views as PERT does. Scenario planning tables are more about evaluating different potential future scenarios rather than tracking specific task durations throughout the project.