Two functional managers inserted contradictory requirements for a deliverable and refuse to meet to resolve it. The sponsor has called a meeting with them. What strategy should the project manager use in that meeting?

The project manager's role is to facilitate resolution, not to dictate it or prematurely escalate. By ensuring both managers understand the requirements and then collaboratively searching for a solution, the project manager promotes a constructive environment for conflict resolution. This approach focuses on finding the best outcome for the project deliverable, which aligns with project objectives. Option A is incorrect because it avoids addressing the conflict and could lead to further issues. Option B is premature; the project manager should first attempt to facilitate a resolution before resorting to a change request or unilaterally deciding. Option D is a valid step in understanding the conflict, but it's not the complete strategy. The project manager should facilitate a joint solution rather than making a unilateral decision based solely on cost/benefit without prior collaboration.