Hope for the best but plan for the worst we always say. Everyone always wants their next book/web/product launch to go seamlessly (unless you’re a crisis junkie). But in spite of how meticulously you manage the project, issues tend to occur along the way.

With a bit of planning, you can avoid (maybe even prevent!) some common disasters. Here’s how:

• Know the danger zones. What are the common but hidden problems typically associated with the work or project you are trying to execute? Knowing this in advance helps you put tactics in place to minimize the impact.
• Have a safety net. Sometimes we call this our ‘plan B’. Make sure you are covered should issues occur. For example, allow adequate time in your schedule in case tasks go overtime, that way your deadlines can still be met.
• Emergencies – they happen. Have a back-up plan (resources, funding, tools) in case the unexpected happens. Knowing what you would do in the case of an emergency during your project will help you recover and keep things from going over a cliff until the crisis is under control.

Risk planning and management should be a regular part of your project approach. Saves a lot of fan cleaning down the road.

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