Final answer:
The benefit of using a Monte Carlo simulation in project management is that it compels the project manager to evaluate project tasks and their durations realistically by quantifying the impact of risk and uncertainty on the project's timeline.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question relates to the benefits of using a Monte Carlo simulation for project timeline predictions. Answer B. 'It forces the project manager to realistically evaluate critical tasks’ duration' is correct. The Monte Carlo simulation is a computational algorithm that uses repeated random sampling to obtain numerical results. It is often used to understand the impact of risk and uncertainty in prediction and forecasting models.
A Monte Carlo simulation would help in assessing the likelihood of a project's completion date by running multiple simulations with different variables to predict a range of possible outcomes. While it doesn't make it impossible for projects to be completed late (A), or make the project easy since not all projects use the same assumptions (C), it does indeed force a project manager to evaluate critical tasks and their potential durations more realistically, as multiple scenarios are tested including best-case, worst-case, and most likely outcomes (B). This can be particularly beneficial in complex projects where several tasks are dependent on each other, and it helps to identify potential bottlenecks or risks. Despite this, it does not inherently provide the client with a detailed understanding of how the project will be completed (D), as its primary function is to assess risk and probability, not necessarily to communicate project plans.