What competency is essential for project managers in planning?

The essential competency for project managers in planning is the ability to schedule and delegate project development tasks. Effective scheduling ensures that project milestones are set, timelines are adhered to, and resources are allocated efficiently. This involves understanding the project requirements, timelines, and the capabilities of team members to delegate tasks appropriately. Such project planning is crucial for maintaining workflow and ensuring that the project progresses smoothly.

Delegation is equally important as it allows project managers to leverage the strengths of team members, empowering them to take ownership of specific tasks and fostering collaboration. This also helps in managing the workload and addressing any potential bottlenecks in the process.

In contrast, options that suggest maximizing team size, a hands-off management approach, or focusing solely on risk assessment neglect the comprehensive scope of project management. Simply increasing team size without proper coordination can lead to inefficiencies. A hands-off approach may lead to a lack of direction and support for team members, which can compromise project success. Lastly, while risk assessment is a critical aspect of project management, it should not be the sole focus; a well-rounded approach that includes planning, scheduling, and team management is essential for project effectiveness.