Before defining new quality standards, the project manager should first ensure that conformity requirements are clearly defined and that applicable industry standards are considered. Clear requirements and established benchmarks help ensure suppliers understand and comply with expectations. These are foundational steps in quality planning.

Option B (referencing old plans) may provide some insight but is secondary to defining requirements for the current project.

Option C (adding inspectors) is a control measure, not a planning action.

Option E (requesting supplier statements) occurs during execution, not planning.