Process: Implement Risk Responses
Process Group: Executing
Knowledge Area: Project Risk Management
Purpose
The Implement Risk Responses process involves carrying out the agreed-upon actions to address identified risks. It ensures that risk response plans are integrated into project work and executed effectively, reducing threats and enhancing opportunities.
Inputs
- Project Management Plan – Especially the risk management plan and updated components like cost, schedule, and resource baselines.
- Project Documents – Risk register, risk report, lessons learned register.
- Organizational Process Assets (OPAs) – Guidelines, procedures, and best practices for executing risk responses.
Tools and Techniques
- Expert Judgment – Applied to interpret risk strategy execution and ensure appropriate integration with other project areas.
- Interpersonal and Team Skills – Leadership, negotiation, and influencing to ensure commitment to risk responses.
- Project Management Information System (PMIS) – Tools for assigning, tracking, and documenting response activities.
Outputs
- Change Requests – If implementing a risk response requires modification to scope, cost, schedule, or other baselines.
- Project Document Updates – Specifically:
- Risk register (status of risks and actions)
- Risk report (effectiveness of responses)
- Lessons learned register (outcomes and improvements)
Role in the Process Group and Knowledge Area
- In the Executing Process Group, this process translates planning into action by ensuring risk responses are actually carried out.
- Within Project Risk Management, it closes the loop between identifying and analyzing risks and actively addressing them in real time.
Why It Matters
- Reduces Risk Exposure – By ensuring mitigation or enhancement strategies are put into practice.
- Improves Accountability – Confirms that risk owners are taking responsibility for their assigned actions.
- Validates Planning Efforts – Demonstrates that risk response planning leads to tangible execution.
- Enhances Adaptability – Allows teams to respond effectively to changing risk conditions throughout the project.