What is a Pre-mortem? ...and how do you run one?

The video explains the pre mortem technique, developed by Gary Klein, which helps identify potential project failures before they occur. It is a proactive risk management tool that challenges planning biases by assuming project failure and analyzing possible causes. The video outlines the benefits of conducting a pre mortem, especially at the start of a project, and provides a six-step process for implementation, applicable in both in-person and online settings.

What is the primary purpose of a pre mortem?

• To allocate project resources

• To finalize the project plan

• To identify potential project failures before they occur

• To celebrate project success

When is the best time to conduct a pre mortem?

• After the project has failed

• At the start of the project

• In the middle of the project

• At the end of the project

What is a key benefit of conducting a pre mortem?

• It guarantees project success

• It reduces the need for team meetings

• It ensures the project plan is followed exactly

• It helps identify biases in the project plan

What is the first step in conducting a pre mortem?

• Review the risk register

• Consolidate the lists

• Imagine a fiasco

• Prepare the group

During the pre mortem, what should participants imagine?

• The project is on hold

• The project is under budget

• The project has gone seriously wrong

• The project has been a success

What is the purpose of consolidating the lists in a pre mortem?

• To finalize the project budget

• To compare and organize identified failures and their causes

• To assign project tasks

• To create a marketing plan

Why should the pre mortem exercise be repeated periodically?

• To ensure the project plan is unchanged

• To keep the team entertained

• To stay alert for new potential failures

• To reduce project costs