A team member is not completing deliverables on time or responding to emails while the project manager is on vacation. Which of the following actions should the technical lead take?
Correct Answer: C
The technical lead should follow the escalation path. The issue described is a performance/response problem that is impacting delivery while the PM is unavailable. CompTIA Project+ emphasizes having and using an escalation path as part of issue management and governance, ensuring problems are raised to the correct authority quickly (e.g., acting PM, functional manager, HR/people manager, or sponsor depending on severity and policy). Escalation is appropriate because the team needs timely intervention to restore progress and accountability.
Updating the issue register (B) is a useful documentation step, but it does not by itself resolve the problem; escalation drives action. Informing all stakeholders (A) is usually excessive and can create noise or reputational harm; stakeholder communication should be controlled and targeted, typically after escalation determines impacts and a recovery approach. Initiating a change request (D) is inappropriate because the core problem is not a requested change to scope or requirements; it is a delivery/behavior issue requiring management intervention.
A good escalation approach is: document facts (missed deliverables, non-responsiveness), attempt direct contact, then escalate per policy to the designated backup PM or functional manager for corrective action (reassign work, coaching, or formal performance steps).