When managing a project with new team members who lack formal project experience, it's important to provide support and flexibility. Including buffer time in the schedule can help absorb future delays and reduce pressure on the team. This approach allows the team to learn and grow while still keeping the project on track.
It's a proactive measure that anticipates potential challenges and plans for them in advance. References:
PMBOKGuide - Sixth Edition (Page 181, 6.6.1.4 Schedule Baseline and Project Schedule Network Diagrams)

According to the hybrid project management approach, which combines elements of waterfall and agile methodologies, the project manager should facilitate the collaboration and communication among the team members and adjust the scope and schedule as needed12. In this scenario, the project manager should first determine whether other cross-functional team members are able to take over the work of the developer who left the company in the middle of an iteration. This would allow the project to continue with minimal disruption and maintain the quality and value of the deliverable. If no one on the team has the skills or capacity to complete the work, the project manager should then consult with the product owner and the stakeholders to renegotiate the scope and schedule of the iteration, or to cancel the iteration and return to planning3. The project manager should avoid reviewing the backlog to reschedule the deliverable for a later iteration without involving the team and the product owner, as this would violate the agile principle of customer collaboration over contract negotiation4. The project manager should also avoid engaging with stakeholders directly to review the iteration process without involving the team and the product owner, as this would violate the agile principle of self-organizing teams4. The project manager should also avoid going to management and asking to hire a new external developer without exploring other options first, as this would incur additional costs and risks, and delay the delivery of the product feature5. References: 1: What is the Hybrid Approach in Project Management? | Hygger.io 2: Hybrid Project Management: What is it, Approach
& Software - Teamhood 3: What to do when capacity is reduced in the middle of the Sprint? (e.g. Sick Leave)
- Project Management Stack Exchange 4: Manifesto for Agile Software Development 5: How To Handle A Key Team Member Leaving At A Critical Project Point | IT Staffing & Technical Consulting

In agile project management, knowledge sharing is crucial for the team's collective growth and adaptability.
When a team member develops expertise in a specific area, it is beneficial for the agile project manager to encourage that individual to share their knowledge with the rest of the team. This can be done effectively through a training session, which not only disseminates the knowledge but also fosters collaboration and learning within the team. This approach aligns with the principles of agile methodologies, which emphasize team interaction, continuous improvement, and responding to change12.
:
PMI's "Managing Project Management Knowledge" article1.
LinkedIn's "How to Lead and Empower Your Project Team with PMBOK" article2.

When faced with a situation where a contractor stops participating in meetings and fails to submit reports, the project manager should take the following steps:
1.Assess the Situation as a Risk: The project manager should view this issue as a risk to the project. Lack of communication and reporting can impact project progress, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction. By identifying it as a risk, the project manager can proactively address it.
2.Reach Out to the Contractor: The project manager should communicate with the contractor to understand the reasons behind their behavior. It's essential to have an open conversation to uncover any underlying issues or challenges the contractor is facing.
3.Identify the Origin of Resistance: The project manager should inquire about the specific reasons why the contractor finds these activities time-consuming. Is there a valid concern, such as workload or conflicting priorities? Or is it a matter of misunderstanding or misalignment?
4.Explore Solutions: Based on the contractor's feedback, the project manager can explore potential solutions.
This might involve adjusting the reporting frequency, streamlining the reporting process, or clarifying expectations. The goal is to find a balance that ensures project progress while respecting the contractor's workload.
5.Reinforce Commitments: Remind the contractor of their initial commitment to submitting reports and attending meetings. Emphasize the importance of timely communication and collaboration for project success.
6.Document the Interaction: Regardless of the outcome, document the conversation with the contractor. This documentation can serve as evidence if further actions are needed.
References:
*Chapter 4: Understanding and Meeting Client Expectations - Project Management
*Client Management: How to Win and Retain Clients - ProjectManager
*How to understand your clients' needs and challenges | Mural
*5 client management skills that every project manager needs - Birdview PSA

The Project Management Professional (PMP) emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and risk management. In this scenario, the project manager has identified a potential risk that could impact the project's execution. The best course of action is to mitigate this risk proactively by scheduling training for the key workers. This will ensure that they remain compliant with the new legislation requirements and can continue their tasks without disruption. References: PMBOK Guide, Risk Management, Proactive Planning. Please refer to the specific sections in the PMBOK Guide and PMP study materials for more detailed information.