Communications Management Plan
A section of the overall project, program, or portfolio management plan that specifies how project information will be managed and shared, including timing, methods, and the people responsible.
Key Points
- Defines what information is communicated, to whom, in what format, and how often.
- Assigns roles and responsibilities for creating, reviewing, approving, and sending communications.
- Specifies channels, tools, languages, time zones, and data security considerations.
- Includes escalation paths and aligns with stakeholder engagement and change control; updated as the project evolves.
Example
On a software rollout, the plan states: the project manager emails a weekly status report to the sponsor every Friday; a biweekly steering committee meeting is held via video conference; critical issues are escalated to the sponsor within 24 hours; and all artifacts are stored on a secure project portal with read-only access for external vendors.
PMP Example Question
Which document identifies who sends project updates, the frequency, format, and distribution method for each stakeholder group?
- Risk Register
- Communications Management Plan
- Stakeholder Register
- Issue Log
Correct Answer: B — Communications Management Plan
Explanation: The communications management plan defines the content, timing, format, channels, and responsible parties for project communications.