Issue

A present condition or circumstance that could influence or affect the project's objectives.

Key Points

  • Exists now and requires attention; unlike a risk, it is not uncertain.
  • Recorded in an issue log with an owner, priority, and target resolution date.
  • May need escalation or decisions and can trigger change control if baselines are impacted.
  • Can affect scope, schedule, cost, quality, resources, or stakeholder satisfaction.

Example

During system testing, a critical interface fails, blocking progress. The project manager logs an issue, assigns an owner to investigate, assesses impacts on the test schedule and budget, escalates to the sponsor for a decision, and raises a change request if the plan must be adjusted.

PMP Example Question

A stakeholder reports that last night's data migration failed and testing cannot proceed. How should the project manager categorize and handle this?

  1. Add it as a risk and plan a response later.
  2. Log it as an issue, assign an owner, manage it through the issue process, and initiate change control if needed.
  3. Treat it as an assumption to be validated.
  4. Document it as a dependency and continue with the plan.

Correct Answer: B — Log and manage it as an issue

Explanation: The event has already occurred and is affecting objectives now, so it is an issue requiring immediate tracking, ownership, and potential change control.

Advanced Lean Six Sigma — Data-Driven Excellence

Solve complex problems, reduce variation, and improve performance with confidence. This course is designed for professionals who already know the basics and want to apply advanced Lean Six Sigma tools to real business challenges.

This is not abstract statistics or theory-heavy training. You’ll use Excel to perform real analysis, interpret results correctly, and apply tools like DMAIC, SIPOC, MSA, hypothesis testing, and regression without memorizing formulas or relying on expensive software.

You’ll learn how to measure baseline performance, analyze process capability, use control charts to maintain stability, and validate improvements using statistical evidence. Templates, worked examples, and structured walkthroughs help you apply each concept immediately.

Learn through a complete, real-world Lean Six Sigma project and develop the skills to lead data-driven improvements with credibility. If you’re ready to move beyond basics and make decisions backed by data, enroll now and take your Lean Six Sigma expertise to the next level.

Explore the Course


Advance your Lean Six Sigma expertise!

HK School of Management helps you take Lean Six Sigma to the next level without the overwhelm. Master advanced statistical tools, Excel-based analysis, and real-world improvement techniques to solve complex problems with confidence. Practical skills, tools, and guidance you can apply right away. Covered by Udemy's 30-day refund policy.

Learn More