Risk management on projectsView course dates
Key takeaways
Strong risk management improves delivery certainty by surfacing threats early and agreeing responses.Instructor-led
- Define risks as uncertain events that can help or harm scope, schedule, cost, or quality.
- Classify risks (internal, external, technical, financial, operational, strategic) to avoid blind spots.
- Use a repeatable cycle: identify, assess likelihood and impact, plan responses, then monitor and adapt.Self-paced online
- Maintain a live risk register, supported by tools such as a risk matrix, SWOT, and project software alerts.
- Prevent common failures by controlling scope changes, monitoring budgets, managing dependencies, and planning resources.Choose course option:
- Keep stakeholders engaged with clear communication so risks are understood, owned, and acted on.

"},"aggregateRating":{"@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":"4.8","reviewCount":"227"},"location":{"@type":"VirtualLocation","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation"},"image":["https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/res/logos/axelos-peoplecert-prince2-accredited-training-organisation-logo.svg"],"offers":{"@type":"Offer","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation","price":"","priceCurrency":"","availability":"http://schema.org/InStock","validFrom":"2026-06-12"},"performer":{"@type":"Person","name":"Susan Tuttle"},"organizer":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation"}}
Project management is a challenging process that is prone to many possible failures. Risk management is a key aspect of project management that can help increase the likelihood of project success. This involves the process of identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks that can threaten the project.06 Jul - 09 Jul
In this article, we will explore some of the risks that can arise on projects and how to deal with them effectively. We will discuss the following topics:
- The definition and importance of understanding project risksPRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course (Online)
- The different types of common project risks
- The process of risk management on projects £1,899
- The tools and techniques used in risk management
- The strategies for effective risk mitigation£2,099
- The best practices for successful risk management on projects.
By the end of this article, you will be able to:Enrol now
- Identify potential risks on your projects
- Apply effective risk management strategies
- Improve the chances of your project’s success.
You can also learn about project risk management on a project management course{"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","startDate":"2026-07-06","endDate":"2026-07-09","description":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"< such as p>
Let’s begin and explore the world of project risk management and how to protect your projects from potential risks.
Understanding project risks
Definition of project risk
A 06 Jul - 09 Julproject risk refers to an uncertain event or condition that, if it occurs, has the potential to either positively or negatively affect the outcome of a project. Risks can impact project objectives such as scope, schedule, cost, or quality. Examples of project risks include changes in customer requirements, budget constraints, delays in schedules, technical issues, resource shortages, and more.PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course (London)
Types of project risks
- : These risks originate from within the project or the organisation itself. They can be related to factors such as team dynamics, resource availability, or management decisions.
- External risks : These risks arise from factors outside the project’s control, such as economic conditions, regulatory changes, natural disasters, or market trends.
- Technical risks : Technical risks are associated with the technology or methodologies used in the project. They may involve issues like software glitches, hardware failures, integration challenges, or inadequate technical expertise.{"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","startDate":"2026-07-06","endDate":"2026-07-09","description":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":""},"aggregateRating":{"@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":"4.8","reviewCount":"227"},"location":{"@type":"VirtualLocation","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"},"image":["https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/res/logos/axelos-peoplecert-prince2-accredited-training-organisation-logo.svg"],"offers":{"@type":"Offer","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","price":"","priceCurrency":"","availability":"http://schema.org/InStock","validFrom":"2026-06-12"},"performer":{"@type":"Person","name":"Susan Tuttle"},"organizer":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"}}
- Financial risks : Financial risks impact the project’s budget, funding, or financial resources. They can include factors like unexpected cost overruns, currency fluctuations, or inadequate financial planning.
- Operational risks : Operational risks affect the day-to-day functioning of the project. They can encompass issues like human errors, process inefficiencies, supply chain disruptions, or equipment failures.08 Jul - 09 Jul
- Strategic risks : Strategic risks influence the project’s alignment with the organisation’s overall business goals. They may involve risks related to changing market demands, competitive pressures, or organisational changes.PRINCE2 Practitioner course (Online)
Impact of risks on project success
Risks can have a variety of impacts on a project’s success: £1,599
- Positive effects : These could include opportunities for innovation or efficiency improvementsEnrol now
- Negative effects : These could lead to delays, cost overruns, or quality issues.
Effective risk management is important for minimising negative impacts and maximising the potential for opportunities and overall project success.{"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Practitioner course","startDate":"2026-07-08","endDate":"2026-07-09","description":"PRINCE2 Practitioner course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"

03 Aug - 06 Aug is the uncontrolled expansion of a project’s scope without corresponding adjustments to time, budget, and resources. Common causes of scope creep include ambiguous initial requirements, lack of change control processes, Stakeholder pressure for additional features, and insufficient stakeholder engagement.
ImpactPRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course (Online)
Scope creep can have several impacts on a project:
- It can increase the project’s duration, require more resources and increase costs £2,099
- It can lead to delays and missed deadlines
- It can cause the project to lose focus and drift away from its original objectivesEnrol now
- It can lead to team burnout and demotivation.
To prevent scope creep, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the project’s objectives and requirements, and to establish change control processes to manage and approve any changes to the project scope.
Budget overruns
Common causes
Budget overruns{"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","startDate":"2026-08-03","endDate":"2026-08-06","description":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"< occur when the actual cost of a project exceeds the initially allocated budget. Common causes of budget overruns include inaccurate cost estimation, scope changes, unforeseen expenses, and poor resource management.p>
PRINCE2 Practitioner
is for students wanting to learn to apply PRINCE2 on projects.
"},"aggregateRating":{"@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":"4.8","reviewCount":"227"},"location":{"@type":"VirtualLocation","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"},"image":["https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/res/logos/axelos-peoplecert-prince2-accredited-training-organisation-logo.svg"],"offers":{"@type":"Offer","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","price":"","priceCurrency":"","availability":"http://schema.org/InStock","validFrom":"2026-06-12"},"performer":{"@type":"Person","name":"Susan Tuttle"},"organizer":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"}}
Common causes
Schedule delays can occur due to a variety of reasons:
- Unrealistic time estimates05 Aug - 06 Aug
- Resource unavailability
- Dependency conflictsPRINCE2 Practitioner course (Online)
- External factors (e.g. weather, supplier delays).
Impact £1,599
Schedule delays can lead to missed deadlines and milestones, increased costs due to prolonged project duration, reduced stakeholder satisfaction and potential loss of competitive advantage.
To address time-related risks, implement effective project scheduling techniques and regularly monitor project progress.Enrol now
Resource constraints
Types of resource risks
Resource risks can take various forms, such as:
- Skill shortages{"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Practitioner course","startDate":"2026-08-05","endDate":"2026-08-06","description":"PRINCE2 Practitioner course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"
PRINCE2 Practitioner - is for students wanting to learn to apply PRINCE2 on projects.
"},"aggregateRating":{"@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":"4.8","reviewCount":"227"},"location":{"@type":"VirtualLocation","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"},"image":["https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/res/logos/axelos-peoplecert-prince2-accredited-training-organisation-logo.svg"],"offers":{"@type":"Offer","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","price":"","priceCurrency":"","availability":"http://schema.org/InStock","validFrom":"2026-06-12"},"performer":{"@type":"Person","name":"Susan Tuttle"},"organizer":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"}}
Resource constraints can result in reduced productivity, compromised quality of deliverables, increased stress on team members and potential project delays.
Conduct thorough resource planning and maintain open communication with stakeholders to proactively address resource-related issues.
Communication issues
Importance of effective communication07 Sep - 08 Sep
Effective communication
{"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Foundation course","startDate":"2026-09-07","endDate":"2026-09-08","description":"PRINCE2 Foundation course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"Invest time in gathering and documenting clear requirements and maintain ongoing stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment.<
p>Operational changes<
strong>PRINCE2 FoundationTypes of operational risks
> is for students wanting to learn the language of PRINCE2. It is ideal for people new to PRINCE2 and working in a project environment.Operational changes
>"},"aggregateRating":{"@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":"4.8","reviewCount":"227"},"location":{"@type":"VirtualLocation","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation"},"image":["https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/res/logos/axelos-peoplecert-prince2-accredited-training-organisation-logo.svg"],"offers":{"@type":"Offer","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation","price":"","priceCurre can include:- Organisational restructuring
- Process modifications
- Technology upgrades
- Regulatory changes.
Impact on project execution
Operational changes can affect projects
The first step in risk management is to identify potential risks that could impact your project. Some common techniques include:
- Brainstorming with team members
- Reviewing historical information from similar {"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Foundation course","startDate":"2026-09-07","endDate":"2026-09-08","description":"PRINCE2 Foundation course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"
PRINCE2 Foundation - is for students wanting to learn the language of PRINCE2. It is ideal for people new to PRINCE2 and working in a project environment.
"},"aggregateRating":{"@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":"4.8","reviewCount":"227"},"location":{"@type":"VirtualLocation","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation"},"image":["https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/res/logos/axelos-peoplecert-prince2-accredited-training-organisation-logo.svg"],"offers":{"@type":"Offer","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation","price":"","priceCurrency":"","availability":"http://schema.org/InStock","validFrom":"2026-06-12"},"performer":{"@type":"Person","name":"Susan Tuttle"},"organizer":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation"}}risk register to document all identified risks.
Risk assessment and prioritisation
After identifying risks, assess their potential impact and likelihood of occurrence. Tools you can use include:07 Sep - 10 Sep
- Risk matrix : Plot risks on a chart based on their probability and impactPRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course (Online)
- Quantitative analysis : Assign numerical values to risks £2,099
- Qualitative analysis : Categorise risks based on severity.Enrol now
Prioritise risks based on their potential impact.
Risk response planning
For each prioritised risk, develop a response strategy. Common responses include:
- Avoidance : Eliminate the threat by changing {"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","startDate":"2026-09-07","endDate":"2026-09-10","description":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"
PRINCE2 Practitioner is for students wanting to learn to apply PRINCE2 on projects.- "},"aggregateRating":{"@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":"4.8","reviewCount":"227"},"location":{"@type":"VirtualLocation","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"},"image":["https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/res/logos/axelos-peoplecert-prince2-accredited-training-organisation-logo.svg"],"offers":{"@type":"Offer","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","price":"","priceCurrency":"","availability":"http://schema.org/InStock","validFrom":"2026-06-12"},"performer":{"@type":"Person","name":"Susan Tuttle"},"organizer":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"}}: Shift the risk to a third party (e.g. insurance)
- Acceptance : Acknowledge the risk and prepare contingency plans.
Document your response strategies in a risk management plan.07 Sep - 10 Sep
Risk monitoring and control
Continuously monitor risks throughout the project lifecycle. This includes:PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course (London)
- Regular risk reviews and updates
- Tracking risk triggers and early warning signs £2,299
- Implementing planned responses when necessary
- Evaluating the effectiveness of risk responses.Enrol now
Adjust your risk management approach as needed based on new information and changing project conditions.
By following this structured process, you can effectively manage risks and increase your project’s chances of success.
is for students wanting to learn to apply PRINCE2 on projects.Tools and techniques for project risk management
- {"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Foundation course","startDate":"2026-10-05","endDate":"2026-10-06","description":"PRINCE2 Foundation course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"Opportunities: Potential benefits<
- p>Threats: Possible risks.<
strong>PRINCE2 FoundationPerforming a SWOT analysis gives you a well-rounded view of your project’s risk landscape.
> is for students wanting to learn the language of PRINCE2. It is ideal for people new to PRINCE2 and working in a project environment.Brainstorming sessions
- {"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","startDate":"2026-10-05","endDate":"2026-10-08","description":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"Clearly define project boundaries and scope during the planning stage<
- p>Implement a change control process to evaluate and approve scope changes<
- strong>PRINCE2 PractitionerCommunicate the impact of scope changes to all stakeholders.
> is for students wanting to learn to apply PRINCE2 on projects.Managing budget risks
- Utilise resource levelling techniques to balance workloads{"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Practitioner course","startDate":"2026-10-07","endDate":"2026-10-08","description":"PRINCE2 Practitioner course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"
PRINCE2 Practitioner
- is for students wanting to learn to apply PRINCE2 on projects.
- "},"aggregateRating":{"@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":"4.8","reviewCount":"227"},"location":{"@type":"VirtualLocation","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"},"image":["https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/res/logos/axelos-peoplecert-prince2-accredited-training-organisation-logo.svg"],"offers":{"@type":"Offer","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","price":"","priceCurrency":"","availability":"http://schema.org/InStock","validFrom":"2026-06-12"},"performer":{"@type":"Person","name":"Susan Tuttle"},"organizer":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"}}
- Utilise collaboration tools to facilitate information sharing.
Ensuring clarity in project requirements
- Conduct thorough requirements gathering sessions with stakeholders
- Create detailed, unambiguous project specifications02 Nov - 03 Nov
- Implement formal requirements review and approval process.
Adapting to changesPRINCE2 Foundation course (Online)
- Stay informed of potential changes within the organisation
- Build flexibility into £1,359project plans
- {"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Foundation course","startDate":"2026-11-02","endDate":"2026-11-03","description":"PRINCE2 Foundation course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"Look at past data and apply any relevant lessons learnt.<
p>Regular risk assessment<
- strong>PRINCE2 FoundationHold > is for students wanting to learn the language of PRINCE2. It is ideal for people new to PRINCE2 and working in a project environment.regular check-ins to review>"},"aggregateRating":{"@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":"4.8","reviewCount":"227"},"location":{"@type":"VirtualLocation","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation"},"image":["https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/res/logos/axelos-peoplecert-prince2-accredited-training-organisation-logo.svg"],"offers":{"@type":"Offer","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation","price":"","priceCurrency":"","availability":"http://schema.org/InStock","validFrom":"2026-06-12"},"performer":{"@type":"Person","name":"Susan Tuttle"},"organizer":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-foundation"}} identified risks and their status
- Re-evaluate risks as the project progresses and circumstances change
- Revise risk mitigation plans as necessary.
Stakeholder involvement in risk management
- Include stakeholders in identifying and assessing risks02 Nov - 03 Nov
- Keep stakeholders informed of risk management plans and progress
- Seek stakeholder input on risk mitigation strategies.
Continuous learning and improvementPRINCE2 Foundation course (London)
- Record lessons learnt from risk management successes and failures
- Share information with other project teams to improve organisational risk management £1,529
- Invest in ongoing training and development of risk management skills.
Follow these tips to help you establish a positive risk management culture and improve project success.£1,799
Conclusion
Recap of key points£2,099
Effective project risk management is a multi-faceted approach that involves identifying and assessing potential risks, developing mitigation strategies, utilising appropriate tools and techniques, and implementing best practices for continuous improvement.
These elements form a comprehensive framework for managing uncertainties in project management.Enrol now
Importance of ongoing risk management
Risk management is an ongoing process that requires constant vigilance, regular reassessment and adaptation to changing project conditions.
By prioritising risk management throughout the project lifecycle, you increase the likelihood of project success. Remember, proactive risk management is an investment in your project’s future, safeguarding its objectives and deliverables.
FAQs{"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"EducationEvent","name":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","startDate":"2026-11-02","endDate":"2026-11-05","description":"PRINCE2 Practitioner (with Foundation) course","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","eventStatus":"EventScheduled","eventAttendanceMode":"OnlineEventAttendanceMode","audience":{"@type":"Audience","name":"
What is the difference between internal and external project risks?
Risk assessments should be conducted regularly throughout a project, often at predetermined intervals or key project milestones. Monthly risk assessments are typical for most projects. "},"aggregateRating":{"@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":"4.8","reviewCount":"227"},"location":{"@type":"VirtualLocation","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"},"image":["https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/res/logos/axelos-peoplecert-prince2-accredited-training-organisation-logo.svg"],"offers":{"@type":"Offer","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner","price":"","priceCurrency":"","availability":"http://schema.org/InStock","validFrom":"2026-06-12"},"performer":{"@type":"Person","name":"Susan Tuttle"},"organizer":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/project-management/prince2/prince2-course/prince2-practitioner"}} Small teams can prioritise risks based on their potential impact, use simple risk assessment tools, and leverage the diverse expertise of team members to ensure comprehensive risk management. How often should risk assessments be conducted during a project?
What role do stakeholders play in project risk management?p>
is for students wanting to learn to apply PRINCE2 on projects.
How can small teams effectively manage project risks with limited resources?
Infographic

