What are common factors that contribute to project failure?

The correct answer identifies a range of factors that are widely acknowledged as contributing to project failure, which include poor planning, lack of stakeholder engagement, and inadequate risk management.

Poor planning refers to the failure to adequately outline project objectives, scopes, and processes, which can lead to confusion, misalignment, and project delays. Without a solid plan, teams may struggle to coordinate tasks and resources effectively, resulting in wasted effort and timeline extensions.

Lack of stakeholder engagement is another critical factor. Engaging stakeholders ensures that their needs and expectations are understood and addressed throughout the project life cycle. When stakeholders are not actively involved, there is a higher risk of miscommunication, unmet expectations, and ultimately project failure due to a disconnect between what is being delivered and what stakeholders expect.

Inadequate risk management can lead to project failure by leaving unanticipated issues unaddressed. A lack of foresight regarding potential project risks can result in teams being unprepared to handle challenges when they arise, which may derail the project entirely.

In contrast, options that highlight timely communication with stakeholders or mention overly optimistic timelines do not encapsulate the broader and more systemic issues that are typically the root causes of project failure. While having well-defined project goals can significantly aid project success, it