The product owner frequently misses demonstration ceremonies, causing them to be rescheduled and negatively affecting the work. The project manager believes the product owner is not committed. What should the project manager have done to prevent this situation?

The correct answer is to agree with the product owner on appropriate project governance levels. This proactive measure establishes clear expectations and commitments for all stakeholders, including the product owner's participation in key ceremonies like demonstrations. By defining governance early, the project manager can ensure the product owner understands their responsibilities and the impact of their absence. Defining a Definition of Done (DoD) is important for quality and completeness but doesn't address stakeholder engagement. Arranging for another product owner is a reactive workaround, not a preventive measure for commitment issues. Establishing external audits is an escalatory action, not a preventive one, and is typically reserved for more severe or persistent problems.