Common Project Risks and Effective Strategies to Mitigate Them

In the realm of project management, understanding and mitigating risks is a crucial part of ensuring the success of a project. Project managers are responsible for ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the desired quality standards. However, despite the best planning, several risks can arise, potentially derailing a project or causing setbacks that can affect the overall outcome. These risks are inherent in any project, and learning how to identify, assess, and mitigate them is an essential skill for project managers.

Cost Risk

Cost risk is one of the most prevalent risks faced by project managers. It refers to the possibility that the actual cost of the project will exceed the estimated budget. Cost risks can arise for several reasons, such as poor cost estimation, unforeseen expenses, or scope changes that require additional resources. In some cases, project managers might also face cost overruns due to poor project planning or unexpected issues that arise during the execution phase.

For instance, when a project manager does not have accurate data on the resources needed or fails to account for external variables such as inflation or currency exchange rate fluctuations, they may end up underestimating the total project cost. Cost risk can also emerge if there are changes in the project scope (scope creep), requiring additional tasks and resources that were not initially planned for, leading to increased costs. Additionally, delays in the project timeline can result in additional costs for labor, materials, or other project-related expenses.

To mitigate cost risk, it’s essential for project managers to engage in thorough planning and develop a realistic project budget that includes a contingency fund for unforeseen costs. Regularly tracking and managing costs throughout the project lifecycle is also critical. Additionally, ensuring that all project stakeholders are on the same page regarding scope, goals, and expectations can help prevent scope creep and unexpected cost increases.

Schedule Risk

Schedule risk refers to the possibility that the project will take longer to complete than originally planned. This risk can arise from various sources, such as delays in procurement, unforeseen complications in project execution, or resource shortages. Schedule risk is a significant concern for project managers because delays can have a cascading effect on the overall project, causing cost overruns, missed deadlines, and a negative impact on the project’s perceived success.

For example, if a project depends on external suppliers or subcontractors, delays in their deliverables can push back the entire project timeline. Similarly, unanticipated challenges in the execution phase, such as technical difficulties or labor shortages, can result in missed milestones or extended timelines. Additionally, schedule risk can be exacerbated by poor time estimation at the planning stage, leading to overly optimistic timelines that do not take into account potential delays.

Managing schedule risk requires careful planning and accurate time estimation. A detailed project schedule with clear deadlines, milestones, and resource allocations can help project managers stay on track. It is also important to build some flexibility into the schedule to account for unforeseen issues that may arise. Regular progress tracking and communication with all project team members and stakeholders are essential to ensure the project remains on schedule.

Performance Risk

Performance risk is the risk that the project will fail to deliver the expected results or outcomes, even if it is completed on time and within budget. This risk can manifest in several ways, such as the failure to meet performance specifications, quality standards, or stakeholder expectations. Performance risk is often linked to the project’s objectives and deliverables, and it can lead to dissatisfaction among stakeholders, clients, and project sponsors.

For example, a software development project might be completed on time and within budget, but if the software fails to meet the functionality requirements or does not perform as expected, the project can still be considered a failure. Similarly, a construction project might meet deadlines and budget constraints, but if the final product does not meet the quality standards outlined in the project scope, the project’s success can be questioned.

To mitigate performance risk, project managers should clearly define the project’s objectives, deliverables, and quality standards at the outset. Regular testing, reviews, and quality assurance measures during the execution phase can help identify potential issues before they become significant problems. It is also important for project managers to maintain open lines of communication with stakeholders to ensure that their expectations are aligned with the project’s objectives and that any changes in scope are properly managed.

Operational Risk

Operational risk refers to the risk that internal processes, procedures, or systems will fail, leading to disruptions in the project’s execution. This type of risk can arise from a variety of factors, such as poor project management, inefficient processes, or breakdowns in communication or coordination between team members. Operational risk can affect any phase of the project, from planning to execution, and can lead to delays, cost overruns, or even project failure.

For instance, if the project team does not follow established project management processes or lacks the necessary tools and resources, the project may experience inefficiencies or mistakes that affect its overall success. Operational risk can also stem from communication breakdowns between different departments or stakeholders, leading to misunderstandings or delays in decision-making.

To address operational risk, project managers should ensure that all project processes are well-documented, standardized, and regularly reviewed for efficiency. Training and development programs for team members can help ensure that they are equipped with the necessary skills to perform their tasks effectively. Additionally, fostering a collaborative and communicative project culture can help reduce the likelihood of operational risks, as it allows team members to address issues and concerns before they escalate into major problems.

Technology Risk

Technology risk refers to the potential for technical failures, cyberattacks, or other issues related to technology to disrupt the project. In today’s increasingly digital world, many projects rely heavily on technology for communication, collaboration, and execution. While technology can offer significant benefits, it also introduces a new set of risks that must be carefully managed.

For example, a software development project might encounter issues related to programming errors, system crashes, or incompatibility with existing systems. Similarly, a project that depends on cloud-based infrastructure may face security risks, such as data breaches or unauthorized access to sensitive information. In some cases, the technology may simply not work as expected, leading to delays or performance issues.

Managing technology risk involves identifying potential technology-related threats early in the project and implementing measures to mitigate them. This could include implementing security protocols, ensuring system redundancy, and establishing contingency plans for technical failures. It’s also essential for project managers to work closely with technical experts to ensure that the technology being used is reliable and meets the project’s needs.

Communication Risk

Communication is critical to the success of any project, and communication risk refers to the potential for communication failures that can lead to misunderstandings, errors, and delays. Poor communication can arise from a variety of factors, such as language barriers, cultural differences, or ineffective communication tools.

For example, if a project manager fails to communicate key updates or changes in project scope to stakeholders, they may encounter resistance or confusion later on. Similarly, if team members do not clearly understand their roles or tasks due to poor communication, it can lead to mistakes or delays. Communication risk can also arise from using outdated or inefficient communication tools that hinder collaboration or information sharing.

To mitigate communication risk, project managers should establish clear communication protocols and ensure that all team members and stakeholders are on the same page regarding project goals, timelines, and responsibilities. Regular team meetings, status updates, and clear documentation can help keep everyone informed and reduce the risk of misunderstandings. It’s also important to consider cultural differences and language barriers when working with diverse teams or stakeholders.

Project risks are an unavoidable part of any project, but they do not have to derail a project’s success. By understanding the common risks that can arise during a project, project managers can take proactive steps to identify, assess, and mitigate these risks. Proper planning, regular communication, and the use of risk management tools can help minimize the negative impact of these risks and increase the likelihood of a successful project outcome. In the next part, we will explore further strategies for tackling these risks and ensuring project success.

Managing project risks is a crucial part of the project manager’s role. When you recognize potential risks early, it becomes possible to develop strategies to mitigate them before they become detrimental to the project. In this section, we will explore effective strategies for dealing with some of the most common project risks, providing actionable insights to ensure your projects stay on track.

Scope Creep Risk

Scope creep is one of the most common risks in project management. It refers to the tendency for the project’s scope to expand beyond its original objectives, often without proper approval or assessment. This can happen due to evolving stakeholder demands, a lack of clear scope definition, or misunderstandings between the project team and stakeholders. Scope creep can result in project delays, increased costs, and decreased quality.

To manage scope creep, project managers should establish a clear and detailed project scope at the outset. This scope should define the project’s objectives, deliverables, and boundaries. As part of risk mitigation, project managers should implement a change management process that includes reviewing any proposed changes to the scope before they are approved. This ensures that any modifications to the scope are properly assessed for their impact on the project timeline, costs, and resources.

Regular communication with stakeholders is also key to preventing scope creep. By keeping stakeholders informed about the project’s progress and any changes, project managers can help ensure that expectations are aligned and that changes to the scope are well-managed. Additionally, setting clear boundaries from the start and managing stakeholder expectations can prevent unnecessary additions to the project that are outside the defined scope.

Skills Resource Risk

Skills resource risk refers to the possibility that the project team may lack the necessary skills or expertise to complete the project successfully. This risk is particularly prevalent in projects that require specialized knowledge or technical expertise. If the team members are not adequately trained or if there is a high turnover of key personnel, the project may be delayed or fail to meet its objectives.

To mitigate skills resource risk, project managers should conduct a thorough skills assessment before starting the project. This involves identifying the skills required for the project and evaluating the team’s capabilities. If there are gaps in skills or knowledge, the project manager can provide training, hire additional team members, or outsource specific tasks to external experts.

Another important aspect of managing skills resource risk is ensuring that the project team is adequately supported throughout the project. This includes providing access to necessary resources, tools, and training to ensure that the team members can perform their tasks effectively. Additionally, having contingency plans in place for addressing skills shortages or turnover can help ensure that the project stays on track even if there are personnel changes.

Market Risk

Market risk refers to the risk that external market conditions, such as changes in consumer demand, economic fluctuations, or increased competition, may affect the project’s success. While market risk is often unpredictable, it is still crucial for project managers to consider it when planning and executing their projects. Market conditions can impact the demand for a product or service, affecting the project’s goals, timeline, and financial outcomes.

To manage market risk, project managers should conduct a thorough analysis of the market conditions before starting the project. This includes researching trends, consumer behavior, and potential competitors. By understanding the market landscape, project managers can better anticipate any potential changes and adapt their project strategies accordingly.

One way to mitigate market risk is by building flexibility into the project plan. For example, including contingency plans or alternative strategies can help the project team respond quickly to changes in the market. Regular monitoring of market trends during the project’s execution is also essential to ensure that the project stays aligned with market demands and conditions.

Governance Risk

Governance risk refers to the risk that the project’s leadership, including executives and board members, may make decisions that negatively affect the project. This could be due to a lack of oversight, poor decision-making, or ethical lapses within the organization. Governance risk can lead to project failure if it results in poor management, misallocation of resources, or the loss of stakeholder confidence.

To address governance risk, project managers need to establish a clear governance framework at the outset of the project. This framework should define the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders, including executives, board members, and other decision-makers. Additionally, project managers should ensure that there are regular reviews and checks in place to monitor the project’s progress and decision-making.

Effective communication with governance stakeholders is also critical to minimizing governance risk. Project managers should provide regular updates to executives and other stakeholders to ensure that they are informed about the project’s status and any potential risks. Clear, transparent communication helps maintain stakeholder trust and ensures that the project remains aligned with the organization’s strategic objectives.

Strategic Risk

Strategic risk arises when there are flaws in the planning or strategic decisions made for the project. This type of risk occurs when the project fails to align with the overall business strategy, resulting in missed opportunities, wasted resources, or misdirection. Strategic risk can emerge when the wrong technology is chosen, the project scope is misaligned with the business goals, or the project fails to consider long-term business trends.

To mitigate strategic risk, project managers should ensure that the project aligns with the organization’s overall strategy. This requires close collaboration with senior management and a clear understanding of the company’s goals and objectives. Strategic risk can also be minimized by conducting regular reviews and assessments throughout the project’s lifecycle to ensure that it is still aligned with the organization’s evolving priorities.

Regular risk assessments can help project managers identify and address potential strategic risks early. This can involve evaluating the project’s progress against the original business case and making necessary adjustments to ensure that the project remains on track. Moreover, ensuring that the right resources, technologies, and expertise are in place can help avoid strategic missteps that might derail the project’s success.

Legal Risk

Legal risk involves the potential for legal issues to arise during the project, such as compliance violations, disputes with vendors or stakeholders, or other legal complications. These risks can be particularly damaging, as they can result in costly litigation, reputational damage, or project delays.

To manage legal risk, project managers should ensure that all relevant legal and regulatory requirements are considered during the planning phase. This may involve consulting with legal experts to understand the legal landscape and identifying potential legal challenges that could arise during the project.

Developing contracts and agreements that clearly define the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of all parties involved in the project can help mitigate legal risks. These agreements should be reviewed by legal counsel to ensure that they comply with applicable laws and regulations. Furthermore, project managers should maintain open lines of communication with legal experts throughout the project to address any legal issues that arise promptly.

External Hazard Risks

External hazard risks are those that arise from unpredictable external factors, such as natural disasters, terrorism, or civil unrest. These risks are often beyond the control of the project team and can have catastrophic impacts on the project. While it is impossible to predict such events, project managers can take steps to prepare for them.

One way to manage external hazard risks is by developing a contingency plan that includes strategies for dealing with potential disasters. This could include establishing alternative project locations, securing backup resources, or creating emergency response protocols. Additionally, project managers can purchase insurance to protect the project against certain types of external risks.

It’s also important to monitor external factors that may affect the project. This could include staying informed about weather conditions, political developments, or other events that could disrupt the project. By being proactive in identifying potential hazards, project managers can better prepare their teams and resources to respond if these risks materialize.

As projects grow in complexity, the risks associated with them also become more intricate. In this part, we will explore more advanced strategies for managing and mitigating project risks. These strategies are designed to address complex and often unpredictable risks that project managers face. With proper risk management tools, communication, and contingency planning, project managers can increase their project’s chances of success, even in the face of uncertainty.

Risk Identification and Risk Registers

The first step in effective risk management is risk identification. Identifying potential risks early allows the project manager to develop strategies to address them before they cause significant damage. One of the most useful tools for this process is a risk register.

A risk register is a document or database where all identified risks are recorded, along with their potential impact, probability of occurrence, and proposed mitigation strategies. By continuously updating the risk register, project managers can track risks throughout the project lifecycle and adjust their plans as necessary.

The risk register should include key information such as:

• Risk Description: A clear description of the risk.

• Likelihood: The probability of the risk occurring.

• Impact: The severity of the consequences if the risk occurs.

• Mitigation Strategy: The actions to be taken to reduce the risk or prevent it from happening.

• Contingency Plan: The actions to be taken if the risk occurs.

Regularly reviewing and updating the risk register ensures that project managers can anticipate problems and take proactive steps to address them. It also helps stakeholders stay informed about the status of potential risks and their resolutions.

Risk Analysis Techniques

Once risks are identified, the next step is to analyze them. Risk analysis involves determining the likelihood of a risk occurring and the potential impact it could have on the project. There are two main types of risk analysis: qualitative and quantitative.

Qualitative Risk Analysis

Qualitative risk analysis is a more subjective approach. It involves assessing risks based on their severity and the likelihood of occurrence, often using simple terms like “high,” “medium,” or “low.” This type of analysis is typically used to identify and prioritize risks that could have the most significant impact on the project.

This analysis often uses tools like risk matrices that plot the likelihood of a risk occurring against its potential impact. Risks that fall into the “high likelihood” and “high impact” categories should be prioritized for action.

Qualitative analysis is particularly useful for projects where the risks are difficult to quantify but still need to be addressed. It helps project managers focus on the most pressing risks that may affect the project’s overall success.

Quantitative Risk Analysis

Quantitative risk analysis is a more data-driven approach. This method uses statistical techniques to measure the probability of risks and their potential impact on project outcomes. Techniques such as Monte Carlo simulations or decision tree analysis can be used to quantify risk in terms of financial impact, time delays, or resource allocation.

While quantitative risk analysis is more complex, it provides project managers with concrete data that can be used to develop more accurate risk mitigation strategies. By applying quantitative methods, project managers can estimate the potential costs or time delays associated with specific risks and incorporate those estimates into their project planning.

Contingency Planning

Even with the best efforts to manage risks, unforeseen events can still occur. This is where contingency planning comes into play. Contingency planning involves preparing for risks that cannot be fully mitigated or predicted. A well-constructed contingency plan outlines what actions the project team should take if certain risks materialize.

Effective contingency planning involves:

• Identifying potential risks that require contingency plans: These are typically risks that have a high probability of occurring or those with a potentially significant impact on the project’s success.

• Developing backup plans: These plans should detail alternative approaches for addressing the risk. For example, if a supplier fails to deliver on time, the contingency plan may include alternative suppliers or expedited shipping methods.

• Allocating resources for contingencies: Reserve funds or extra time should be set aside for dealing with unforeseen events. This ensures that the project can continue even if unexpected risks arise.

• Regularly reviewing and updating the contingency plan: As the project progresses and risks evolve, it is important to keep the contingency plan up to date.

Having a contingency plan in place ensures that the project team is prepared to act quickly and effectively when problems arise, preventing significant disruptions to the project.

Risk Communication

Effective communication is key to successful risk management. All stakeholders, including project sponsors, team members, and external partners, should be informed about potential risks and the strategies in place to mitigate them. Clear communication helps manage expectations and ensures that everyone is aligned in terms of risk management.

There are several best practices for risk communication:

• Transparency: Project managers should be open and transparent about the risks that may impact the project. Hiding or downplaying risks can lead to a lack of preparedness and increased uncertainty.

• Frequent updates: Regularly updating stakeholders about the status of risks and any changes to the risk register or mitigation strategies keeps everyone informed. This can be done through regular meetings or reports.

• Escalation procedures: There should be a clear escalation process for when risks evolve or become critical. This ensures that higher-level decision-makers are promptly involved in addressing major risks.

By maintaining open lines of communication, project managers can ensure that risks are managed collaboratively, with input and buy-in from all relevant parties.

Risk Ownership

Assigning ownership of specific risks to individuals or teams within the project is an effective strategy for managing risks. Risk owners are responsible for tracking their assigned risks, developing mitigation strategies, and ensuring that the risk management plans are executed properly.

This approach ensures accountability and allows for more focused management of each risk. Assigning ownership helps project managers avoid spreading responsibility too thinly, which can lead to missed risks or inadequate responses. Risk owners should report regularly on their assigned risks and keep the project manager informed of any changes or developments.

Risk Monitoring and Control

Risk management is an ongoing process. Once risks are identified, analyzed, and mitigated, they still need to be monitored and controlled throughout the project. Continuous monitoring allows project managers to assess whether the mitigation strategies are working or if new risks have emerged.

Some common methods for risk monitoring and control include:

• Risk Audits: Regular risk audits help assess the effectiveness of risk management strategies and ensure that the project team is following the planned risk responses.

• Trend Analysis: Monitoring trends in project performance can help identify potential risks before they become significant problems. For example, if costs are exceeding the budget, it may signal that a cost risk is emerging.

• Risk Re-assessment: As the project progresses, it is important to reassess the risks and make adjustments to the risk register and mitigation strategies. This ensures that the project remains on track even if new risks emerge.

Effective monitoring and control help ensure that the project can adapt to changing circumstances and continue moving forward without being derailed by unforeseen challenges.

Managing risks effectively is one of the most important aspects of project management. By implementing strategies like risk identification, analysis, contingency planning, and continuous monitoring, project managers can ensure that potential risks are managed proactively, minimizing their impact on the project’s success. Using tools like risk registers, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and clear communication can significantly enhance a project manager’s ability to navigate the complexities of modern projects.

An effective risk management strategy is essential for the success of any project. It involves identifying potential risks early, assessing their impact, and taking proactive measures to mitigate or avoid them. In this final part, we will review the critical elements of an effective risk management strategy and how they contribute to long-term project success. These elements are interrelated and, when combined, provide a comprehensive approach to managing project risks from start to finish.

Risk Management Planning

Risk management planning is the foundation of any successful project. Without a clear and comprehensive risk management plan, a project is vulnerable to unforeseen risks that can lead to delays, cost overruns, and even project failure. The planning phase involves identifying potential risks, analyzing their impact, and deciding on the most appropriate mitigation strategies.

The first step in risk management planning is to establish the project’s risk tolerance. Every project has its unique set of circumstances, and the risk tolerance will vary depending on factors such as the project’s scope, timeline, budget, and strategic importance. The risk management plan should outline how risks will be identified, assessed, monitored, and controlled throughout the project lifecycle.

Once the plan is developed, it is important to communicate it to all stakeholders and team members. Everyone involved in the project should understand the risks and the strategies in place to manage them. This shared understanding helps ensure that the project team is prepared to address risks when they arise.

Risk Identification

Risk identification is the process of recognizing and documenting potential risks that may affect the project. It is an ongoing process that begins during the planning phase and continues throughout the project lifecycle. Identifying risks early is crucial, as it allows the project team to develop strategies for mitigating or avoiding them.

There are several techniques for identifying risks, including:

• Brainstorming sessions: Gathering input from team members, stakeholders, and experts to generate a list of potential risks.

• SWOT analysis: Analyzing the project’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to identify areas where risks may arise.

• Historical data review: Examining past projects and lessons learned to identify common risks that may recur.

• Expert judgment: Consulting with subject matter experts who have experience with similar projects to identify potential risks.

Once risks are identified, they should be documented in the project’s risk register for further analysis and monitoring. Having a well-organized system for tracking risks ensures that no risks are overlooked and that the project team can take timely action when needed.

Risk Assessment and Prioritization

After identifying risks, the next step is to assess and prioritize them based on their likelihood of occurrence and potential impact on the project. This process allows project managers to focus their efforts on the risks that are most likely to affect the project’s success.

Risk assessment can be performed using qualitative and quantitative methods. Qualitative methods categorize risks as high, medium, or low based on their likelihood and impact, while quantitative methods assign numerical values to risks to determine their potential impact on cost, schedule, or resources.

Prioritizing risks is essential because not all risks are created equal. Some risks may have a minor impact on the project, while others could derail the entire project. By assessing the severity and likelihood of each risk, project managers can determine which risks require immediate attention and which can be monitored over time.

Once risks are assessed, a mitigation plan can be developed for each of them. High-priority risks that have a significant potential impact on the project should be addressed first. Low-priority risks can be monitored but may not require immediate action.

Risk Mitigation Strategies

Risk mitigation strategies are actions taken to reduce the likelihood or impact of a risk. These strategies can be categorized into four main types:

• Avoidance: Taking actions to eliminate the risk or change the project plan to avoid the risk altogether. For example, if a project is at risk of missing its deadline, the project manager might decide to hire additional resources or adjust the timeline.

• Transfer: Shifting the risk to a third party, such as through insurance or outsourcing. For example, a project manager might transfer the risk of equipment failure to a supplier by including warranties or service level agreements (SLAs) in the contract.

• Mitigation: Reducing the likelihood or impact of the risk. This can be achieved by implementing preventive measures, such as additional training or quality control procedures, to minimize the chance of the risk occurring.

• Acceptance: Acknowledging the risk and preparing to deal with it if it occurs. Some risks, especially low-probability risks, may not warrant mitigation efforts. Instead, the project manager might accept the risk and develop contingency plans for how to address it if it materializes.

Selecting the appropriate mitigation strategy depends on the nature of the risk and its potential impact on the project. The goal is to develop a balanced risk management plan that minimizes the impact of risks while also allowing the project to proceed efficiently.

Risk Monitoring and Control

Risk monitoring and control is an ongoing process that involves tracking identified risks, assessing their impact, and adjusting mitigation strategies as necessary. It is essential to continuously monitor risks throughout the project to ensure that the risk management plan is working effectively.

Key activities in risk monitoring and control include:

• Regular risk reviews: Periodically reviewing the risk register to ensure that all identified risks are still relevant and that mitigation strategies are working.

• Risk audits: Conducting formal reviews of the risk management process to assess whether the project team is following the planned risk management activities and achieving the desired outcomes.

• Tracking risk triggers: Identifying early warning signs (risk triggers) that indicate when a risk is becoming more likely to occur. By monitoring these triggers, the project manager can take corrective action before the risk becomes a major issue.

• Contingency planning: Continuously assessing whether contingency plans need to be activated. If a high-priority risk materializes, the project team should be prepared to implement the contingency plan to minimize its impact.

Effective risk monitoring and control help ensure that risks are managed throughout the project, allowing the project to adapt to changing circumstances and stay on track.

Communication and Stakeholder Engagement

Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful risk management. Project managers must ensure that all stakeholders are informed about the risks and mitigation strategies in place. Clear and transparent communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that all team members are aligned in their approach to risk management.

Communication should include:

• Regular updates: Providing stakeholders with regular updates on the status of identified risks and the steps taken to address them.

• Escalation processes: Establishing clear escalation procedures for when a risk evolves into a more significant issue. This ensures that senior management and other stakeholders are informed promptly and can take action if needed.

• Risk reporting: Including risk-related information in project status reports, ensuring that risks are discussed alongside progress on milestones, budgets, and timelines.

By engaging stakeholders in the risk management process, project managers can foster a collaborative approach to managing risks and ensure that everyone is prepared to address potential challenges.

Conclusion

A comprehensive and well-structured risk management strategy is essential for navigating the uncertainties inherent in project management. By identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks throughout the project lifecycle, project managers can minimize the potential for disruptions and ensure that the project stays on track. Key elements such as risk management planning, risk identification, risk assessment, and continuous monitoring form the foundation of an effective risk management approach.

With a proactive risk management strategy in place, project managers can increase the likelihood of project success, deliver projects on time and within budget, and meet stakeholder expectations. By following best practices for risk management, project managers can effectively navigate the complexities of modern projects and drive their teams toward successful outcomes.