The First Document for Project Managers

A.

As a project manager, the first document to review upon assignment to an ongoing project is typically the project charter. The project charter is a document that outlines the purpose, goals, objectives, and stakeholders of the project. It also includes the project scope, budget, and timeline, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the project team.

Reviewing the project charter first provides the project manager with a clear understanding of what the project is meant to accomplish, who is involved, and what constraints and resources are available. This knowledge is essential for the project manager to be able to develop a project plan and schedule that will enable the project to meet its objectives within the given constraints.

While the other documents listed - project schedule, action items, and communication plan - are all important components of a project, they typically build on the foundation established in the project charter. Therefore, it is crucial for the project manager to review the project charter first to gain a comprehensive understanding of the project's objectives, constraints, and scope.