Transforming project risk management into project uncertainty management

Ward, Stephen and Chapman, Chris (2003) Transforming project risk management into project uncertainty management. International Journal of Project Management, 21 (2), 97-105. (doi:10.1016/S0263-7863(01)00080-1).

Abstract

This paper argues that all current project risk management processes induce a restricted focus on the management of project uncertainty. In part this is because the term ‘risk’ encourages a threat perspective. In part this is because the term ‘risk’ has become associated with ‘events’ rather than more general sources of significant uncertainty. The paper discusses the reasons for this view, and argues that a focus on ‘uncertainty’ rather than risk could enhance project risk management, providing an important difference in perspective, including, but not limited to, an enhanced focus on opportunity management. The paper outlines how project risk management processes might be modified to facilitate an uncertainty management perspective.

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