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✅ Correct Answer: A. Obtained all critical information ahead of time

• 📋 PMI emphasizes **proactive risk management** and **upfront planning**.
• 💡 Waiting for critical inputs during deployment is a project risk that should have been addressed earlier.
• 🚀 Getting all information in advance helps ensure smooth execution with no last-minute dependencies.

✔ Why Option A is Correct

Critical data from stakeholders should be identified and gathered during planning and early execution. By securing these inputs in advance, the project manager could have mitigated the risk of delay before deployment began.

✖ Why Other Options Are Incorrect

• B. Involving the customer is always good, but without firm deadlines or follow-up, delays still occur.
• C. Sample data might not match production needs — this is a workaround, not a preventive action.
• D. Involving upper management is reactive, not preventive. This should have been planned better beforehand.

📌 Key Takeaway

Project delays caused by external stakeholders are often preventable through early planning, expectation setting, and clear deadlines. PMI encourages managing these risks proactively rather than reacting once a delay occurs.