A project manager notices that a new junior team member's suggestions are constantly rejected by senior team members. The senior team members find…

The project manager's responsibility is to foster a collaborative environment and manage team dynamics. The core issue is a conflict stemming from differing perspectives on feasibility, not a lack of competence. Encouraging deeper discussion is a direct application of the "Collaborate/Problem Solve" conflict resolution technique. This approach treats the conflict as a problem to be solved, allowing the team to explore the innovative ideas and the practical constraints together. This can lead to a "win-win" outcome where the junior member learns about project realities and the senior members benefit from new perspectives, ultimately strengthening the team.

1. Project Management Institute. (2021). A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) – Seventh Edition. Project Management Institute

Inc.

Section 2.2

Team Performance Domain: This section emphasizes the project manager's role in fostering a collaborative team environment and managing conflict. It states

"When conflict is handled with respect

it can help the team to reach better outcomes." Encouraging discussion (Option B) directly aligns with this principle.

2. Project Management Institute. (2017). A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) – Sixth Edition. Project Management Institute

Inc.

Section 9.5.2.1

Interpersonal and Team Skills (Conflict Management): This section details five conflict resolution techniques. "Collaborate/problem solve" (the approach in option B) is described as incorporating multiple viewpoints and insights

leading to consensus and commitment. It is presented as a win-win strategy

contrasting with "Force/Direct" (Option A) and "Withdraw/Avoid" (Option D).

3. Verma

V. K. (1998). Conflict Management. In The Human Aspects of Project Management (Vol. 3). Project Management Institute.

Chapter 5

Conflict Management: This text identifies confronting (problem-solving) as the most effective method for conflict resolution. It involves open dialogue and a focus on finding the best solution for the project

which is precisely what encouraging deeper discussions among team members aims to achieve.