Join us on this enlightening journey as we equip you with the knowledge and tools to enhance your risk assessments and take proactive measures towards project excellence.
What is risk management?
Risk management is an integral part of project management and is focused on anticipating what might not go to plan and putting in place actions to reduce uncertainty to a tolerable level
Risk can be perceived either positively (upside opportunities) or negatively (downside threats). A risk is the potential of a situation or event to impact on the achievement of specific objectives
Therefore the purpose of risk management is to minimise the threats and maximise the opportunities through a systematic process of identification, assessment and planned responses.
By conducting a thorough project management risk assessment, the team can identify and prioritise potential risks, gaining a clear understanding of their potential impact and likelihood of occurrence.
This knowledge empowers project managers to implement effective responses and develop contingency plans to mitigate the identified risks. From the project initiation phase onwards, risk management becomes a crucial tool in ensuring that projects stay on track, successfully navigating any hurdles or challenges that may arise. When used consistently across an organisation, risk management supports governance and controls the overall risk exposure.
What is issue management?
Issue management refers to the process of identifying, addressing, and resolving problems or challenges that arise during the course of a project. While risks are potential events that may occur in the future, issues are problems that have already materialised and require immediate attention. These issues can range from communication barriers, unexpected setbacks, resource constraints, scope changes, or conflicts among team members.
The key to effective issue management lies in promptly identifying and acknowledging the problem, analysing its impact on the project’s objectives, and developing appropriate strategies to mitigate or resolve the issue. Timely and efficient issue management ensures that project managers can swiftly address and overcome obstacles, minimising disruptions and keeping the project on track.
The importance of risk management in the concept and initiation phases of a project
The importance of risk management in the early stages of a project cannot be overstated. During these initial phases, the foundation for the entire project is laid and therefore a clear understanding of the threats and opportunities are fundamental to its success.
In the concept phase, risk management aids in the development of a robust business case that enables senior management to evaluate the feasibility and viability of the project.
By proactively addressing risks in the initiation stage, project teams can set realistic expectations, allocate appropriate resources, and develop contingency plans to mitigate potential disruptions. Effective risk management also helps in identifying communication barriers and establishing clear lines of communication among stakeholders, ensuring everyone is aligned on project goals and objectives.
Furthermore, risk management in the early phases inform the benefits realisation process, particularly regarding the maximisation of opportunities.
