Whose Approval Is Needed to Replace a Stage Plan with an Exception Plan?

B.

In the PRINCE2 methodology, a Stage Plan is a detailed plan for a specific stage of the project, while an Exception Plan is a plan used when an unforeseen event occurs, and the original plan is no longer viable. An Exception Plan can be used to provide a new plan that will take the project forward, in line with the project's objectives.

In the event that a Stage Plan needs to be replaced with an Exception Plan, the approval of the Project Board is required. The Project Board is responsible for the overall direction and control of the project and is made up of the Project Manager, Senior User, and Senior Supplier. The Project Board is the only body that can authorize changes to the project's plan, including the replacement of a Stage Plan with an Exception Plan.

Option A, Corporate or programme management, is not correct because they are not directly involved in the day-to-day management of the project. They are responsible for providing overall direction and governance for the project, but they do not have the authority to approve changes to the project plan.

Option C, the Project Manager, is also not correct because the Project Manager is responsible for managing the day-to-day activities of the project and implementing the project plan. However, the Project Manager does not have the authority to approve changes to the project plan, including the replacement of a Stage Plan with an Exception Plan.

Option D, Team Manager, is also not correct because the Team Manager is responsible for managing a specific team or group of people within the project. The Team Manager does not have the authority to approve changes to the project plan, including the replacement of a Stage Plan with an Exception Plan.

Therefore, the correct answer is option B, Project Board.