From Chaos to Clarity: How Running Risk Workshops Make Projects Easier to Manage
Risk Workshops are seldom used, but are a fantastic resource for project managers world wide. Stop skipping and start running risk workshops.
7 Proven Techniques to Identify Project Risks Like a Pro
This guide breaks down 7 proven, techniques to identify project risks effectively. These tools are aligned with the PMBOK® Guide and the PMI-RMP® Exam Content Outline. So, whether you’re studying for a new PMP® or PMI-RMP® certification or leading high-stakes initiatives, this article will sharpen your strategic edge.
How to Build an Effective Risk Register Template
Create a risk register with our step-by-step guide. Stay ahead of project risks and boost stakeholder confidence.
Getting Iterative with Risk Identification in Traditional and Agile Projects
Most teams start strong with risk identification—then stop. So lets talk about getting iterative with risk management!
7 Beginner Steps to Master Risk Identification
Risk identification is more than just a checklist—it’s the foundation of every successful risk management plan. Whether you’re prepping for the PMI-RMP® exam or leading your first Risk Workshop, this step-by-step guide helps you identify and manage risks like a pro. Real-world tested and PMI-aligned, this is your go-to playbook for project risk success.
Review for “The Chat GPT Handbook for Project Managers”
Servant Leadership is part of being a project manager, especially in agile projects. This Servant Leadership Roadmap provides ways to make you successful in the leadership style.
How to Structure Your Project Management Experience to Pass an Application Audit
Don’t let an audit scare you. If you structure your Project Management Experience for the PMP Application the right way, there is nothing to worry about!
Project Risk Identification 101: Start Here, Get It Right
Welcome to your starting point for mastering project risk management. Whether you’re preparing for the PMP® or PMI-RMP® exam, or you’re managing a real project with real uncertainty, this is the place to begin.
BAMCIS Project Management: Marine Corps Framework for Project Leaders
Learn how a Marine Corps process can become a BAMCIS Project Management tool. The 6-step tactical framework can builds strategic projects.
The PMP Application Trap: 4 Mistakes to Avoid
Too many applicants get stuck in a PMP application trap. In this post, I go over the biggest mistakes I’ve seen & how I can help you with it!
Review for “Lead Engaging Meetings”
As a project manager, its our role to Lead Engaging Meetings. This book is a guide and full resource for providing the best and most engaging meetings possible!
When the Risk Register Is Performative: How to Spot the Signals
Risk management is supposed to keep projects safe. But after 15 years providing oversight, I can tell you too often the risk registers is performative.
Business Acumen is the Missing Link to Delivering Real Project Success
PMI’s 2025 Pulse report highlights business acumen as the top differentiator in project success. Discover why most PMs are missing this crucial skill — and how to close the gap.
What Is Scope Creep in Agile and How to Prevent it
Scope creep in Agile projects involves the uncontrolled expansion of project requirements without corresponding adjustments in time, budget, or resources.
Are You Ready to Level Up Your PM Career Growth? Start with Business Acumen
Looking to move beyond delivery into strategic leadership? Learn why business acumen is the career upgrade PMs need to level up — and how to start developing it now.
Review for “Risk Assessment Framework”
Need a scalable framework for your project? Risk Assessment Framework by Ray Frohnhoefer provides the proactive framework for all initiatives.
How Business Acumen Boosts Project ROI, Alignment, and Impact
Business acumen helps project professionals move beyond delivery to measurable value. Learn how it drives better ROI, stronger alignment, and lasting impact.
How to Master Risk Quantitative Analysis Techniques
Risk quantitative analysis uses numerical methods to evaluate project risks and make informed decisions.
This article, motivated from reading “The Failure of Risk Management” by Douglass Hubbard, explains key techniques for quantitative risk analysis like Monte Carlo simulations, expected monetary value, and sensitivity analysis. Learn how to collect accurate data, model risks, and assess financial impacts.
By mastering these methods, project managers can enhance efficiency and achieve better outcomes.
The Global Project Management Talent Gap 2025
PMI has released the “Global Project Management Talent Gap” and if you have any interest in the Project Management Profession – You need to know what’s inside this report!
Risk Is Not a Spreadsheet — It’s a Mindset
What the Marines taught me about risk goes far beyond spreadsheets-it’s a mindset that shapes how project leaders respond to uncertainty. In this blog, I share lessons from Iraq and how those experiences transformed my approach to project management. Discover why embracing risk matters for every project leader aiming to lead with confidence and resilience.
What is Risk Appetite
Understand what is risk appetite in project management and how it impacts project success.
What Is Business Acumen in Project Management? A Guide to Strategic Project Success
Business acumen in project management is the ability to understand the broader business context, make strategic decisions, and align with organizational goals.
The 5 Silent Risk Management Plan Mistakes That Kill Your Project
Discover the 5 silent risk management plan mistakes that ruin your projects and how to fix them before they derail your next project.
My Take on PMI’s ‘Leading AI Transformation’
PMI released Leading AI Transformation: Organizational Strategies for Project Professionals – The guide you need to get your teams focused on AI
Review for “Servant Leadership Roadmap”
Servant Leadership is part of being a project manager, especially in agile projects. This Servant Leadership Roadmap provides ways to make you successful in the leadership style.
What is the Difference Between Issues and Risks and Why is it Important for Project Managers
It doesn’t matter if you are new to project management – or a seasoned expert, this concept can easily get mixed up.
And sometimes when you’re juggling multiple projects and tasks, the key differences between risks and issues can become unclear.
Next thing you know, your project team is treating every problem the same way, and your project management efforts aren’t as effective as they could be. Don’t worry, that’s what this article and I are here for.
PMI’s 2025 Pulse of the Profession®
PMI’s 2025 Pulse of the Profession® shows that project managers with strong business acumen outperform across goals, budgets, and timelines.
Identifying Hidden Project Opportunities in High-Risk Projects
There is a small chance you will find a four-leaf clover this St. Patty’s day, but a better chance you can find an opportunity for your project!
Review for “Practical Project Risk Management: The ATOM Methodology”
Practical Project Risk Management: The ATOM Methodology is a PMI-RMP Exam Content Outline Resource and a Book built for Project Managers and Risk Managers!
Mastering the 10 Knowledge Areas – Project Management Skills
When studying for the PMP, it is critical to understand the PMI Knowledge Areas for project management. Read and Learn more!
Project Management Communication Lessons Learned from The US Military
Project Management Communication Lessons Learned from the US Military – Learn from a US Marine turned Project Manager
Understanding What Are PDUs
Are you a project manager wondering what are PDUs – and what are the requirements for you to maintain your certification? Read more and find out
Leading Project Success: Top Strategies for Effective Management
Leading project success involves strategic planning, clear communication, and strong leadership. Discover key strategies for project success!
PDUs for PMP Renewal: Maintaining Your Project Management Institute Certification
We all know the pain in getting PDUs for PMP professional development units – let me help make the process easier in tracking and earning!
Is Reading the PMBOK Required for Taking the PMP?
The PMBOK is PMI’s top resource for the PMP – but are you required to read it for the PMP? Read more to answer that question and more!
How to Manage Risks for Your Projects
Being able to manage risks is key to any project’s success. Businesses need to identify, assess and mitigate risks or they will get hit with issues.
Mastering the Pomodoro Method for Studying: Boost Focus and Productivity
The Pomodoro Method for studying boosts focus and productivity by dividing study sessions into 25-minute intervals with short breaks. This simple technique keeps you engaged and prevents burnout, something my PMP students need when studying for the complicated exam.
44Risk PM’s 2024 Journey and Bold Vision for 2025
44Risk PM’s 2024 journey has been exciting and the plan for 2025 is only going to provide more resource for new and aspiring PM’s.
The Real Truths About Project Risk Management
Discover why project risks aren’t your enemies but your strongest allies in success. Learn risk management strategies & overcome risk challenges.
The MoSCoW Method for Project Prioritization
Using the MoSCoW Method can enhance your decision-making skills and improve project outcomes. Read more at The Risk Blog!
Mastering the Burndown Chart
Burndown charts stand out as one of the most valuable and widely used estimation statistic. Learn how to use them effectively!
Review for “The Failure of Risk Management”
“The Failure of Risk Management” equips professionals with the tools to move beyond guesswork, leveraging data-driven strategies that truly reduce uncertainty.
Definition of Risk in Risk Management: Key Concepts for Effective Project Planning
Understanding the Definition of Risk in Risk Management is never the reason your project will succeed, but certainly be the reason it fails. Read more to learn how to risk plan effectively for your projects.
Cheers to Safety at Thanksgiving- Gobble Up These Risk Management Tips!
Safety at Thanksgiving means time for family, gratitude, and delicious food. Apply some Risk Management for a safe day!
The Probability-Impact Matrix: From Rookie to Risk Management Expert
The Probability-Impact Matrix is a simple, yet crucial tool that we need to know during our risk management assessments.
Mastering RACI Charts in Project Management
Streamline your projects with RACI charts. This practical guide offers clear steps to define roles and enhance team collaboration.
Review for: “The Impact Engine”
The Impact Engine is a book by Laura Barnard. It is the guide to success in not just your PMO’s, but in your organizations projects!
Coaching as a Leader
Discover practical strategies to enhance your leadership through coaching as a Leader. Learn how to motivate and empower your team!
Project Management Lessons Learned from Kids at Halloween
Discover unexpected project management lessons from children’s Halloween planning from kids.
7 Practical Tips to Develop your Agile Mindset
Agile Mindset – Its development is crucial in today’s fast-paced business environment. And build this mindset goes beyond simply following agile methodologies
Transform Your Career with Forty-Four Risk PM’s Online PMP® Class
Forty-Four Risk PM’s Exam Prep Course – Details, Links to Sign Up, and How to Talk to Russ on Upcoming Courses
The 5 Essential Project Management Attributes for Delivering Results
Discover the key attributes of effective project managers: leadership, communication, technical expertise, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence.
Why We Use a PMI Talent Triangle
The PMI Talent Triangle is crucial for project management success. Learn how technical skills, leadership, and business acumen impact PM’s.
“Monsters of Team Performance” Review
Discover the ‘Monsters of Team Performance’ by Andrew Bull, a must-read for project managers and team leaders. This comprehensive review explores how Bull’s book identifies common team performance issues, offers strategies to overcome them, and provides actionable solutions for building high-performing teams.
7 Essential Risk Controls for Mastering Risk Management
The PMBOK® Guide , defines a risk management process as the “systematic process of identifying, analyzing, and responding to project risks”. Risk Control fits into this definition in that it is the measures and strategies put into place to reduce risks throughout a project. It is the outcome of risk analysis where you assign a […]
Why Task Switching in Project Management Is Hurting Your Team’s Productivity
Discover how task switching in project management affects team productivity and learn strategies to minimize task switching for better focus and efficiency.
5 Common Pitfalls in Project Planning and Execution
Avoid common pitfalls in project planning & execution with these practical tips for success. Learn how to align goals, manage risks, and improve communication.
Avoiding Common Mistakes on Your PMP Application
Learn how to avoid common mistakes on your PMP application with an example of a PMP application, focusing on accurately detailing project management experience.
Review for “Meet the Players in Projectland”
Dawn Mahan’s “Meet the Players in Projectland” is my first 5-star review as it explores how project managers can use Dawn’s unique approach to navigate team dynamics and boost project success.
Is Your Risk Register Falling Short? Discover Key Mistakes and Solutions
Discover why your risk register might be failing and learn key mistakes and solutions to improve your risk management plan.
The Risk Management Plan and Its Importance for Project Managers
A risk management plan is vital. It finds and reduces risks. Learn why it’s important and how to build one effectively in this step-by-step guide.
Battle Tested: Project Management Transferable Skills from Military Service (Part II)
Introduction to Part II This is part two of a series on the skills veterans bring to project management. If you missed Part 1, go HERE and check it out. We explore how discipline, time management, leadership, and risk management make veterans. They are great project managers. In this second part, we will discuss more […]
Ensuring Financial Accuracy in Project Cost Management
Ensure your project’s financial success with effective cost management strategies. Discover key techniques like accurate cost estimation, budgeting, and cost control measures that prevent overspending and align expenses with project goals. Learn how financial precision can optimize resource use, enhance decision-making, and lead your project to success
“Identifying and Managing Project Risk”: A Book Review
This book is for project risk managers and project managers who want to understand the holistic picture of project risk management.
Mastering Risk Strategies: Key Approaches for Effective Project Management
Mastering these risk management strategies allows you to proactively address potential issues, ensuring your project stays on track. Learn and apply them in your projects today!
Maximizing Project Management Value
Project Managers bring value to their organizations, it is the goal of project management to do so. This article gives you a road map to how to provide value and contribute to business growth.
Battle Tested: Project Management Transferable Skills from Military Service (Part I)
Today’s blog is Part I of III on the invaluable transferable skills military veterans bring to project management. This article is focused on industry professionals but is also useful for service members transitioning to civilian careers.
Introducing PMI’s New Practice Guide: The Risk Management Practice Guide
PMI has just released its latest Risk Management Practice Guide, aligning with PMBOK – 7th Edition. This comprehensive guide aims to make risk management more accessible and practical for professionals at all levels. Discover the essentials, benefits, and why it’s a must-have resource for project managers.
Utilizing A ‘Combat Pause’ to Harness Focus Time: A Project Management Hack
Dating back to Alexander the Great, the military has used a combat pause to stop, rest, and get back into action. Project Managers could learn from this tactic when things get rough during their projects.
“Project Management for Professional Services”: A Book Review
“Project Management for Professional Services” is a concise yet comprehensive guide that spans 141 pages, broken down into 11 chapters, plus introductory and closing sections. Each chapter delves into crucial aspects of project management tailored for professional services.
The Evolution of Leadership: Rethinking the Concept of Leading from the Front
The go-to leadership style has always been to “Lead from the Front”, but in this article we talk about maybe shifting that thought process to also “Leading From Behind”.
From Battlefield to Boardroom: Applying the Theories of Clausewitz in Project Risk Management
Clausewitz teaching align directly to Project Risk Management – making Clausewitz a Risk Manager and meaning Risk Managers should take some lessons learned from this notable strategist.
The Challenges of Project Manager Roles and How to Solve Them.
Working as a Project Manager comes with tons of challenges – but there are ways to overcome them, you just have to put in the work!
How to Respond to a Denied Change Request in Project Management: A Personal Experience
Watch me discuss this topic on YouTube https://youtu.be/_8ybQ2o6OYA?si=0zFyEMjwhpAptapB Have you ever had a Change Request denied? Handling the denial of a change request in project management can be challenging, but responding constructively is crucial for maintaining project continuity and stakeholder relationships. My Recent Run-in With A Denied Change Request Not two weeks ago (from writing […]
“Start With Why” Summary: A Book Review
“Start With Why” by Simon Sinek explores the importance of identifying one’s core purpose or “Why.” It is a must-read for leaders and professionals seeking to inspire through clear vision and authentic leadership.
Mastering the Art of Risk: Essential Risk Management Skills
Risk Management Skills in Today’s Projects Mastering the art of risk is not an overnight “ah-ha” moment. Risk management skills build over time through skill acquisition. With every new event, concept, or lesson learned, you sharpen your judgment while bolstering your risk management practices. By continuing to study risk management topics, as a risk manager, […]
Should I Get a PMI Membership?
Anyone who is or looking to work in the project management field needs to look into becoming a PMI Member – The benefits outweigh the costs in a PMI membership and in this article, I am going to show you why!
Stop Saying Risk and Opportunity: Opportunities are Risks
Risks consists of both Threats and Opportunities – this article is a quick explanation of risks and how risk and opportunities is not a correct statement in project management.
A Comprehensive Guide to Tuckman’s Model: Understanding the Stages of Group Development
As a project manager, you are going to work on a team – so, it is useful to know and understand team dynamics. Tuckman’s Model is proven model to understanding group dynamics.
Bust Out That Risk Matrix and Stop Skipping Qualitative Risk Analysis!
Once you identify your risks, what do you do? Discover how qualitative risk analysis and the risk matrix can empower you to navigate project uncertainties with confidence. Don’t miss out on essential insights to elevate your project management game!
“Managing Multiple Projects” Review
In a day and age where project managers are expected to do more, “Managing Multiple Projects” is a relief for your sanity and a guidebook for your all of your projects success
Project Managers and Project Risk Managers: A Perfect Match for a Projects Success
To any project manager, project risk management is one of the most important aspects of project planning. You cannot start a project without fully understanding the risk involved in achieving your outcome.
If you could have a problem with your schedule – Risk
If you could have a problem with your budget – Risk
If you find a way to fast-track without spending additional funds – still a [positive] Risk
No other element of the project lifecycle, like risk, can lead to a project going over budget, falling behind schedule, or flat-out failing.
To understand the relationship between the project manager and the project risk manager, we must first go over project management and risk management in detail.
Leadership Principles and Traits: A Project Manager’s Guide to Leading Like a US Marine
The United States Marine Corps is known for breeding and developing some of the best leaders in the US Armed Forces. Project Managers could learn from the Leadership Principles and Traits used by the US Marine Corps on their projects!
The Project Risk Managers Role in Project Management
Risk managers are critical to project execution but are also the key to ensuring monitoring and control of project risks and follow-on reporting. Companies rely on project risk managers to ensure the risk management framework is employed properly, lowering the chance of a project failing due to unforeseen risks.
Managing Projects for Beginners: Effective Tips for Success
Even the most senior project managers get the basics wrong – So take some time with me to review some of the basics in project management so you can manage your projects for success.
Review of “Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time”
“SCRUM: The Process of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time” is a must-read for all project managers, agile specialists, tech teams, and anyone looking to integrate Scrum or agile practices into their organization. Whether you’re preparing for certifications like PMP or PMI-ACP, or earned your PMP before 2021, dive into this book to enhance your skills and elevate your project management practice.
Strategic Project Management Made Simple: Solution Tools For Leaders and Teams Review
“Strategic Project Management Made Simple” is a must-read for project managers, their project teams, and anyone who drives organizational change. Terry’s book is clear, concise, and educational, with a writing style that will keep the reader engaged (and take notes).
The Proactive 5-Step Process to Effectively Manage Risks
When you manage risks, you manage the life of your project. One of the keys to success is for project managers to manage project management processes. The risk management process is an integral part of that success.
Meet the Mind Behind The Risk Blog: A Personal Introduction
US Marine turned Project Manager who is looking to Blog – This is the journey and why Russ Parker is starting The Risk Blog.