In the case that a calm discussion does not easily resolve a situation and two or more parties are still in a disagreement, it is the PM’s responsibility to put his or her foot down and make a decision that would benefit the project the most. This is the reality almost all PM’s must face. In addition, from my experience, doing whatever it takes to avoid and decrease risk is always a favorable and beneficial route. However, I understand how important meeting deadlines is. Not to mention that extending timelines often comes with its own risks as well. Nevertheless, if extending timelines is possible, I believe executing tests the right way from the start is the safest and smartest move. When tasks are not completed as they should be at any point in the project, they can often manifest and grow into much larger issues down the line which would inevitably delay the project anyway but along with dissatisfaction from upper management and other negative outcomes as well.