Addressing Ambiguities and Introducing
a New Risk Meta-Language
FEATURED PAPER
By Rasoul Abdolmohammadi, PMP, PMI(RMP), CCP
Tehran, Iran
- Abstract
A common challenge faced by project risk analysts is justifying the nature of the items identified as risks to their audience. Analysts are often questioned about whether certain items truly qualify as risks, leading to debates and ambiguities. This paper aims to provide a well-reasoned response to these concerns by offering practical solutions for addressing the uncertainties surrounding the definition of risks in project risk analysis.
It delves into the complexities arising from distinctions between terms such as risk, issue, cause, effect, systemic risk, inherent risk, and risk events. To address these challenges, the paper introduces a new meta-language of risk, designed to support the clear and accurate definition and documentation of project risks, enhancing both understanding and communication among stakeholders.
- Risk Definition
Risk has been defined in various references as follows:
The PMI Standard for Risk Management defines risk as:
“An uncertain event or condition that, if it occurs, has a positive or negative effect on one or more objectives.”
The Practice Standard 62R-11: Risk Assessment: Identification and Qualitative Analysis, published by AACEI, defines risk as:
“An uncertain event or condition that could affect a project objective or business goal.”
ISO 31000: Risk Management – Guidelines defines risk as:
“The effect of uncertainty on objectives.”
Dr. David Hillson, in Briefing No 6 “When is a Risk Not a Risk” defines risk as:
“Uncertainty that matters.”
- Risk Meta-Language
In risk definition, a chain of consequences is usually considered that shows the process of evolving a risk. This chain is starting from the cause of risk and ending at its effects. This chain is a powerful way to from a reasonable understanding from a risk. The following Figure shows this chain:
Risk meta-language as a way to introduce risks uses this chain in risk definition. As phrased by Dr. David Hillson in briefing No 22 “Using Risk Metalanguage to Develop Risk Responses”, every risk can be stated as follows:
“Because of <one or more causes> , <risk> might occur, which would lead to <one or more effects>.”
- Problem Definition and Discussion
As mentioned, the issue lies in the ambiguities inherent in the risk identification process, which primarily arise from the definition of risk. This section introduces and discusses some of the key challenges associated with this issue.
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How to cite this paper: Abdolmohammadi, R. (2025). Practical Approach in Project Risk Definitions: Addressing Ambiguities and Introducing a New Risk Meta-Language; PM World Journal, Vol. XIV, Issue III, March. Available online at http://pmworldlibrary.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pmwj150-Mar2025-Abdolmohammadi-Introducing-new-risk-meta-language.pdf
About the Author
Rasoul Abdolmohammadi
IRAN
Rasoul Abdolmohammadi, a Principal Engineer specializing in Planning & Scheduling at PETRONAS, brings over two decades of invaluable experience in project management. His expertise encompasses various domains, including time, cost, and risk management, establishing him as a distinguished figure in the industry. Rasoul has successfully developed, implemented, and executed project planning, control, and risk management processes across a wide range of international mega-projects within the oil & gas, utilities, and construction sectors.
Throughout his career, Rasoul has held pivotal roles such as Project Control Manager and Project Risk Manager, showcasing his proficiency in crafting pragmatic systems for project schedule, cost, and risk management. He is renowned for his innovative approaches to project risk analysis, a testament to his deep knowledge and insights in the field.
Rasoul’s contributions extend beyond the workplace; he is the author of the acclaimed book, “Practical Project Risk Management Process,” which encapsulates his wealth of experience and expertise. Furthermore, he actively shares his knowledge by presenting on project management best practices at prestigious international conferences, thereby enriching the collective understanding of project management methodologies
He can be contacted at rasoulabdolmohammadi@yahoo.com
