Explanation
According to the PMBOK Guide - Seventh Edition1, one of the principles of project management is to collaborate with stakeholders. This means that the project manager should engage and involve stakeholders throughout the project life cycle, build relationships based on mutual trust and respect, and leverage their diverse perspectives and expertise. The contract department is a key stakeholder for the project, as they provide the necessary resources and services for the project execution. Therefore, the project manager should first try to establish a positive and cooperative relationship with them, rather than escalating the issue to higher management, demanding a budget commitment, or pressuring them to prioritize the project. By arranging a meeting with the contract department, the project manager can acknowledge their importance and value, understand their challenges and constraints, and negotiate a mutually beneficial agreement that meets the project needs and expectations. This will help to create a shared vision and goal, foster collaboration and communication, and reduce potential conflicts and delays.
The other options are not the best actions to take in this situation, as they may worsen the relationship with the contract department and jeopardize the project success. Reporting the issue to higher management and seeking their direct involvement to complete the job from the contract department (option A) may be seen as a sign of distrust and disrespect, and may undermine the authority and autonomy of the contract department.
Communicating with the contract manager to commit a budget for the resources required for project execution (option B) may not address the root cause ofthe delay, and may create unrealistic expectations and constraints for the contract department. Arranging several meetings with the contract department and asking them to contract the project as it is critical for project success (option C) may be perceived as intrusive and demanding, and may increase the workload and stress of the contract department.
References: 1: PMBOK Guide - Seventh Edition | Project Management Institute