Software Risk Management

Whenever a lot is riding on a software project common sense dictates risk analysis.  And since, most software project managers do it superficially and informally, if they do it at all. The time spent analyzing, identifying, and managing risk pays itself back in various ways that are  less upheaval during the project a greater ability to track and control a project and the confidence that comes with planning for problems before they occur.

Risk analysis can absorb a significant amount of project planning effort. Identification, assessment, projection, management, and monitoring all take the time but the effort is worth it. To quote Sun Tzu, a Chinese general who lived in years 2500 ago if you know the enemy and know yourself you need not fear the result of a 100 battles. For the software project manager the enemy is risk.