Certified Sales Cloud Consultant: Handling Topics Outside the Statement of Work

Managing Topics Outside the Statement of Work

Question

During a discovery session at Cloud Kicks, a topic is highlighted that is outside the statement of work (SOW).

How should the consultant proceed?

Answers

Explanations

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A. B. C. D.

C

When faced with a topic during a discovery session at Cloud Kicks that is outside the statement of work (SOW), the consultant should proceed by following these steps:

  1. Evaluate the situation: The consultant should first assess the nature and significance of the topic that is outside the SOW. This involves understanding the scope of the new items and their potential impact on the project.

  2. Confirm understanding: The consultant should ensure a clear understanding of the existing SOW and the specific requirements discussed during the discovery session. This helps in determining if the topic in question falls within the agreed-upon scope or if it is indeed outside the SOW.

  3. Communicate with the client: The consultant should proactively engage with the client to discuss the topic that has been highlighted. This conversation should involve explaining that the topic is not within the originally defined scope and may require additional effort, resources, or timeline adjustments.

  4. Document the new items: It is crucial for the consultant to document the details of the new items that are outside the SOW. This includes capturing the nature of the new requirements, the potential impact on the project, and any associated risks or dependencies.

  5. Define the change order: Based on the discussion with the client and the documented new items, the consultant should work on defining a change order. A change order is a formal document that outlines the additional work, timeline adjustments, and any potential cost implications resulting from the new items. The change order should clearly state the scope change and its impact on the project.

  6. Submit the change order: The consultant should submit the change order to the client for review and approval. This ensures transparency and agreement between the consultant and the client regarding the incorporation of the new items into the project scope.

  7. Await client response: Once the change order is submitted, the consultant should wait for the client's response. The client may accept the change order, negotiate certain aspects, or reject it. The consultant should be prepared to engage in further discussions to address any concerns or questions raised by the client.

  8. Proceed based on client response: Depending on the client's response, the consultant can proceed with the project in the following ways:

    • If the change order is accepted: The consultant should update the project plan, timeline, and resource allocation accordingly, incorporating the new items into the scope of work.

    • If the change order is negotiated: The consultant should engage in further discussions with the client to reach a mutually agreeable resolution. This may involve adjusting the scope, timeline, or cost of the project to accommodate the new items.

    • If the change order is rejected: The consultant should respect the client's decision and continue with the original SOW, excluding the topic that was outside the agreed-upon scope.

In summary, when a topic is highlighted during a discovery session that is outside the SOW, the consultant should communicate with the client, document the new items, define a change order, submit it for review, and proceed based on the client's response. This approach ensures transparency, agreement, and effective management of scope changes in the project. Option C, "Define and submit a change order for the new items," is the correct answer.