HKSM
Predictive Approach
A plan-driven way to manage work that builds a detailed plan up front and actively controls that plan throughout the entire project life cycle.
Key Points
- Early, detailed planning establishes baselines for scope, schedule, and cost.
- Work follows a largely sequential path with limited iteration.
- Progress is tracked and forecasts are made against the approved plan.
- Best when requirements are stable and high predictability is desired.
Example
A city approves a new bridge project. The team creates a full work breakdown structure, detailed schedule, cost baseline, and risk plan before construction begins. Changes are processed through formal change control while performance is measured against the plan.
PMP Example Question
Which situation most appropriately calls for a predictive approach?
- A project with well-defined, stable requirements and strict regulatory milestones.
- A product with rapidly evolving features and frequent stakeholder feedback cycles.
- A research effort with high uncertainty where learning will shape next steps.
- A continuous delivery pipeline that releases small increments weekly.
Correct Answer: A — Predictive approach (plan-driven, baseline-managed)
Explanation: Predictive is best when requirements are clear and stable, enabling detailed up-front planning and control against baselines.
