The correct answer is A - Perform value stream analysis to eliminate the processes with wastage. Value stream mapping is a lean and agile technique used to identify and eliminate non-value-adding activities, optimize flow, and increase delivery efficiency-especially crucial when facing tight deadlines.
From PMI Agile Practice Guide:
"Value stream mapping is used to analyze the flow of materials and information required to bring a product or service to a consumer. It helps teams eliminate waste and improve speed and quality." (PMI Agile Practice Guide, Section 6.4 - Continuous Improvement and Feedback Loops) From Mike Griffiths' PMI-ACP Exam Prep Book:
"Value stream analysis is a lean technique that helps agile teams identify delays, bottlenecks, and handoffs that waste time. When velocity lags behind expectations, understanding the end-to-end process is essential to improvement." (Mike Griffiths, Chapter 7 - Continuous Improvement) Option B (removing high-risk stories) may introduce more long-term risk and undermine value.
Option C suggests manipulating metrics instead of addressing root causes.
Option D may help identify risks early, but it doesn't address why velocity is low.