Despite unresolved risks, a project board continues to approve each stage because halting the project would be politically inconvenient. Which governance failure does this most clearly illustrate?
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ADecisions are being shaped by political avoidance rather than objective assessment
BThe project manager holds excessive influence over strategic choices
CThe governance framework is insufficiently connected to the wider organisation
DControls in place are constraining the team's flexibility to deliver
EThe board is scrutinising the project too rigorously
✓ Correct answer: A. Decisions are being shaped by political avoidance rather than objective assessmentGovernance should enable objective, evidence-based decisions — including the decision to stop or redirect work — rather than being driven by political considerations.
Why the other options are incorrect:
• The project manager holds excessive influence over strategic choices: The problem rests with the board's decision-making behaviour, not the project manager's authority.
• The governance framework is insufficiently connected to the wider organisation: The evidence does not support a finding that the board is too independent.
• Controls in place are constraining the team's flexibility to deliver: Controls are not the source of the problem described.
• The board is scrutinising the project too rigorously: The board is applying insufficient challenge, not excessive challenge.
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