A project manager discovers that a critical team member is planning to leave during the middle of the project. What immediate action should be taken?

Correct answer: Develop a transition plan and knowledge transfer schedule to minimize project impact

Option A is correct because developing a transition plan and knowledge transfer schedule is the immediate priority, ensuring critical knowledge is documented and responsibilities are redistributed before the team member departs, which directly mitigates project risk. Option B is wrong because adjusting the schedule is a secondary action taken after understanding the impact, not the immediate first step. Option C is wrong because requesting the team member to delay their departure addresses symptom rather than risk and may not be feasible or effective. Option D is wrong because hiring a replacement takes time and does not address the immediate knowledge transfer risk that exists right now.