The project manager plans to use email as the primary communication method for an innovation project, but the product owner prefers a different approved communication tool. What should the project manager do?

The correct answer is to update the communications management plan. The communications management plan defines how, when, and by whom project information will be administered and disseminated. If a key stakeholder like the product owner prefers a different approved tool, the plan should be updated to reflect this, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned and aware of the agreed-upon communication methods. This proactive approach prevents future misunderstandings and promotes effective communication. Contacting the sponsor is premature; the project manager should first attempt to resolve the issue directly with the product owner and by following established project processes. Recommending immediate use of the tool or insisting on email without updating the plan bypasses proper project governance and can lead to confusion.