Question 51 - PMI-RMP discussion

The expected monetary value (EMV) for this project can be calculated as follows: (0.6 x US$100,000) - (0.4 x US$100,000) = US$60,000 - US$40,000 = US$20,000 profit.

The EMV of a project is the weighted average of the possible outcomes, which are a US$100,000 profit or a US$100,000 loss in this case. To calculate the EMV, we multiply the probability of each outcome by its monetary value, and then add them together. The formula is:

EMV = (Probability of profit x Value of profit) + (Probability of loss x Value of loss)

In this case, the probability of profit is 60%, and the value of profit is US$100,000. The probability of loss is 40%, and the value of loss is -US$100,000 (negative because it is a loss). Therefore, the EMV is:

EMV = (0.6 x 100,000) + (0.4 x -100,000) EMV = 60,000 - 40,000 EMV = US$20,000

This means that the project has an expected monetary value of US$20,000 profit, which is the answer option B. The other options are incorrect because they do not match the EMV calculation.

The EMV is a useful tool for comparing different projects or alternatives based on their expected values. However, it does not account for the variability or uncertainty of the outcomes, which may also affect the project decision making. For example, a project with a higher EMV but a higher risk may not be preferable to a project with a lower EMV but a lower risk. Therefore, the EMV should be used with caution and in conjunction with other risk analysis techniques.

For more information on the EMV and other risk analysis methods, you can refer to the PMI Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP) Examination Content Outline and Specifications, the A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) -- Sixth Edition, and the Expected Monetary Value (EMV): A Guide With Examples. I hope this helps you understand the concept of EMV and how to apply it to project risk management