Which project management characteristic is most linked with effective communication?

Effective communication in project management is fundamentally tied to clearly defining roles and responsibilities. When team members understand their specific roles within the project and what is expected of them, communication becomes more streamlined. This clarity helps prevent confusion and miscommunication, allowing team members to collaborate more effectively and share information pertinent to their particular functions.

Clear definitions of roles ensure that everyone knows whom to contact for specific issues, which enhances accountability and encourages open lines of dialogue. The more structured the communication process is with defined roles, the less likely there is to be overlap or misunderstanding, which can lead to project delays or conflicts. Therefore, establishing a framework that delineates responsibilities is crucial for fostering an environment where effective communication can thrive.

In contrast, the other options do not support effective communication in project management. While establishing deadlines can help keep a project on track, it doesn't inherently improve communication. Minimizing documentation can lead to a lack of clarity and important information being lost, and ignoring stakeholder feedback can severely hamper the project's success and lead to disengagement among those involved.