Brain storm for potential problems
The first step is to collect the project team (both subject-matter and production people) together and have a brainstorming session, whose purpose is to identify as many likely and unlikely problems as possible.
Rate the likelihood of each problem
You next look at each problem identified and decide whether it is:
- Very likely
- Not likely
And:
- Serious
- Not serious
Having rated the likelihood and seriousness of each, you can now focus on problems that are both Likely and Serious. A useful way in which to do this is by using Post-its®. On a sheet of flipchart paper draw two axes, and label them 'Likelihood' and 'Seriousness'. Work with the group to place the Post-its® in the most appropriate place on the graph. You will end up with something that looks like this graph. Focus your attention on the high likelihood - high seriousness issues. |
 |
Identify the likely causes of each problem
For each problem decide what could happen to cause each of these problems.
Identify what you must do to prevent the causes happening.
Armed with the causes, you can now think about what you need to do to try
and prevent these causes happening.
Prepare contingency plans
However well you plan, some problems will occur, and you need to make sure
that you have developed a contingency plan for each one. You will then be
able to swing this into action as soon as the problem appears.
Continue to look out for problems
Risk analysis is not a one off activity. Keep looking at your horizons to
see if there are any difficulties looming up, and as you find them try to
remove their causes and to develop contingency plans.
|
|
(C) Bryan Hopkins, 2005