When we think about risk management, we often focus on mitigating problems as they arise or after they’ve occurred. However, a more proactive approach is gaining traction in the world of project management: the pre-mortem workshop. This strategy involves simulating a failure scenario before a project begins, identifying potential risks, and developing strategies to prevent those risks from becoming a reality. By anticipating challenges before they arise, pre-mortems can unlock hidden value in a project, setting teams up for greater success.
The first hidden value of pre-mortems is that they foster collaborative problem-solving. By bringing together stakeholders from different areas of expertise, these workshops allow for a wide range of perspectives on what could go wrong and how to address those issues. This collective brainstorming strengthens team cohesion and helps identify potential risks that may not have been obvious at first glance. It also ensures that everyone is aligned on potential obstacles and prepared to tackle them together.
Another often-overlooked benefit is that pre-mortems encourage early identification of blind spots. In many projects, risks are either underestimated or overlooked entirely. Pre-mortems create an opportunity for teams to step outside of their usual thinking patterns, considering worst-case scenarios and examining the project from every angle. This process uncovers hidden risks and ensures that no critical aspect of the project is left unexamined.
Building a proactive culture is another major value of pre-mortem workshops. By encouraging teams to anticipate failure before it happens, these workshops create a mindset of preparedness and resilience. Rather than waiting for problems to surface, teams can act with foresight, mitigating risks before they escalate into significant issues. This proactive approach reduces stress during execution and helps maintain momentum throughout the project lifecycle.
Finally, pre-mortems can also improve communication and trust within the team. When everyone openly discusses potential issues and acknowledges challenges together, it builds an atmosphere of transparency and mutual respect. Teams are more likely to stay engaged and supportive, knowing that challenges have been identified and solutions are already being worked on.
How have you used pre-mortem workshops in your projects, and what hidden benefits have you discovered from this practice?
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About the Writer
Dr. Brian Williamson is the Executive Director with PMO Advisory and a Visiting Lecturer in Leadership and Management Studies at the University of Oxford. A global authority in business transformation, employee experience, and purpose-driven project management, he has authored multiple books.
