Project Risk Management Risk Identification Techniques 3

Question 1

A project manager uses a hierarchical framework that categorizes risks by source (e.g., technical, external, organizational) to ensure comprehensive identification. What is this tool called?

Accepted Answer

Risk breakdown structure (RBS)

Answer

A risk breakdown structure (RBS) is a hierarchical representation of risk categories that guides teams to identify risks across all relevant dimensions.

Question 2

During risk identification, a team uses a pre-defined list of risk categories drawn from industry standards and past project types to prompt discussion. This is best described as using a:

Accepted Answer

Prompt list

Answer

A prompt list is a predetermined set of risk categories used as a starting checklist to trigger broader risk thinking during identification sessions.

Question 3

Which risk identification technique asks 'what could go wrong with each deliverable' by tracing the WBS element by element?

Accepted Answer

WBS-based decomposition review

Answer

Reviewing the WBS element by element ensures that risks associated with every deliverable and work package are systematically considered.

Question 4

An IT project team uses SWIFT (Structured What-If Technique) during a risk workshop. What is the core mechanism of this technique?

Accepted Answer

A facilitator poses 'what if' scenarios to prompt risk discussion

Answer

SWIFT uses facilitated 'what if' questions to systematically challenge project plans and surface risks that might otherwise be overlooked.

Question 5

Influence diagrams are used in risk identification primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Show causal relationships and the flow of influence between variables

Answer

Influence diagrams depict causal relationships and dependencies between project variables, helping teams identify how one factor can trigger or amplify risks.

Project Risk Management Practice Test

Project Risk Management Practice Test

Project Risk Management Risk Identification Techniques 3