What should be done first if a team member believes they cannot meet the project deadline?

When a team member expresses concerns about meeting a project deadline, the most effective first step is to communicate with the Product Owner about the situation. This is important because the Product Owner plays a crucial role in the project's success and is responsible for managing the project's priorities and stakeholder expectations. By bringing the concern to the Product Owner, the team member enables open communication, which is vital for problem-solving and adjusting project plans accordingly.

Acknowledging the issue early on allows the team to collaboratively explore potential solutions, such as re-evaluating project timelines, assessing the scope of work, or reallocating resources effectively. Effective communication fosters a transparent environment where team members feel supported, and problems can be addressed proactively.

The other options would not appropriately address the concern raised. Ignoring the team member’s concerns can lead to further issues down the road. Making assumptions about the impact on the project without consulting others can result in misguided decisions. Similarly, requesting additional resources without providing context could lead to unnecessary expenditures and may not resolve the underlying issue. Thus, engaging the Product Owner is the most constructive approach in this scenario.