Risk Register
The risk register is a project document that records the details of individual project risks, including their identification, analysis results, response plans, and current status.
Explanation
The risk register is created during the Identify Risks process and is progressively elaborated as risks pass through qualitative analysis, quantitative analysis, response planning, and monitoring. Initially, it contains a list of identified risks with brief descriptions and preliminary categories.
As the project progresses, the risk register is updated to include probability and impact assessments, risk scores, priority rankings, assigned risk owners, planned response strategies, contingency and fallback plans, trigger conditions, and residual and secondary risks. It becomes the single source of truth for all individual risk information.
The risk register is a living document. It is reviewed and updated at regular intervals (as defined in the risk management plan) and during risk reassessments. Closed risks remain in the register for historical reference, and new risks are added as they are identified.
Key Points
- •Created during Identify Risks and progressively elaborated
- •Contains risk descriptions, categories, owners, responses, and status
- •Updated throughout qualitative/quantitative analysis and response planning
- •Living document reviewed regularly and at project milestones
Exam Tip
The risk register is a project document, not a component of the project management plan. Know the difference—the risk management plan tells you how to do risk management; the risk register records individual risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Topics
Identify Risks
Identify Risks is the process of determining which risks may affect the project and documenting their characteristics. It is performed iteratively throughout the project.
Risk Report
The risk report is a project document that presents information on overall project risk as well as summary information on individual risks. It is progressively developed throughout the risk management processes.
Perform Qualitative Risk Analysis
Perform Qualitative Risk Analysis is the process of prioritizing individual project risks by assessing their probability of occurrence and impact on project objectives.
Risk Triggers
Risk triggers (also called risk symptoms or warning signs) are events or conditions that indicate a risk is about to occur or has already occurred. They signal the need to activate a risk response.
Test your knowledge
Practice scenario-based questions on this topic with detailed explanations.