What is a key day-to-day responsibility of a project manager?

Maintaining timelines and schedules to track project completion is a fundamental responsibility of a project manager, as it directly relates to ensuring that the project is on track and within its designated timeframe. This task involves planning, monitoring progress, and making necessary adjustments to keep the project aligned with its objectives. Successful project completion often hinges on effectively managing schedules, as delays can impact not only the current project but also subsequent phases or projects.

Project managers utilize various tools and techniques to establish timelines, track milestones, and communicate with team members about their progress. This responsibility encompasses not just setting the timeline at the beginning of the project but also continuously updating it in response to any challenges or changes that arise.

In contrast, the other options either diminish the role's significance or misrepresent the typical responsibilities associated with project management. Tasks like budgeting for meals or only attending meetings do not capture the essential functions of planning and oversight that characterize effective project management. Additionally, assigning blame contradicts the collaborative and problem-solving nature that project managers need to foster within their teams to successfully navigate challenges and ensure project success.