Rule 08 of 12

Keep On Top of Risks.

Uncertainty is the only certainty; things will not go to plan. Write down your top risks and do something about them.

A yellow caution sign standing ready to warn people of a hazard.

Seek clarity on:

—The risks that matter most right now
—How to talk about risk early and honestly
—Where opportunity may exist as well as threat

44% of project managers say a lack of resources is a top challenge. Your biggest stressor is likely to be time and getting the support you need from others. Resourcing aside, a bad risk can kill your project before you get a chance to explore any opportunity.

Don’t swim with sharks.

Questions to reflect on

You do not need to complete everything. Use what helps.

What could hurt progress first?

Make risks visible and continuously identify and mitigate them, at least monthly. Make risk conversations regular and honest with those who allocate time and funding. Start with threats, focus on spotting dangers early. Brainstorm new opportunities to help your project succeed.

What are the top threats right now?
What would cause the biggest delay or loss?
Which risks need action this month?

How will we keep risk conversations honest?

Uncertainty is the only certainty; things will not go to plan. Write down your top risks and do something about them.

Who needs visibility of the risks?
How often will we review them?
Where do we need early support or escalation?

OptionalUse a Readiness Check to pause and reflect before moving on.

Readiness Check

Go deeper

Related Plays

Optional frameworks if you want more structure.

Eliminate Risks

Identify strategic risks early and build a habit of removing them before they grow.

Explore Play

Manage Dependencies

Identify, record and review key dependencies and manage how work affects and depends on others.

Explore Play

Ready to move on?

Once risks are visible and actively managed, you are better placed to break the work into smaller parts and scale with less drama.

Next: Think Big, Start Small Return to Prove It Works

Confluity Project Model sitemap

Model overview

What are Jobs?

The model is organised into three Jobs:

Job 1: Set the Direction – shape the purpose into options and a preferred way forward.

Job 2: Prove It Works – test assumptions and reduce risk before going big.

Job 3: Make It Happen – deliver at scale and make sure people actually use what you build.

What are Simple Rules?

The model contains simple rules. These are short principles drawn from experience that help you make better decisions. Jobs, tasks, and plays help you put those rules into practice.

What is a Play?

A Play is a method or tool that helps you apply a rule or complete a task. Use the recommended Plays first for simpler projects before exploring others.

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