Which practice helps mitigate delays caused by supply shortages?

• A. Delaying procurement until materials arrive
• B. Relying on design changes to manage risk
• C. Early procurement
• D. Avoiding procurement planning

Answer: (C)

Securing materials early helps prevent delays when supply chains tighten. By initiating procurement early, you identify long-lead items and lock in orders well in advance, allowing suppliers to confirm availability and delivery windows. This creates a buffer in the schedule, reduces the risk of idle time waiting for materials, and helps the project stay on track even if shortages arise. Waiting to procure until items arrive leaves no slack, making the project vulnerable to delays if items aren’t readily available. Designing changes to manage risk often causes rework and additional time, and avoiding procurement planning ignores a critical step in controlling the schedule. Therefore, early procurement is the most effective approach.