When a stakeholder raises a concern about quality, the project manager should first validate the claim against objective data, such as metrics or reports defined in the quality management plan. This ensures that decisions are evidence-based and aligned with documented quality criteria. The PMBOK Guide - Seventh Edition emphasizes that decisions regarding deliverable compliance should be based on quality metrics and standards defined during planning. Option A bypasses verification and may lead to unnecessary rework. Option C assumes resolution requires funding without confirming the problem. Option D relates to risk management and is not the first logical step. References: PMBOK Guide - Seventh Edition, Quality Performance Domain PMI Practice Standard for Project Quality Management