Premortem Template
What is a Premortem for Project Managers?
A premortem for project managers is a structured session where the team imagines a failed project and works backward to pinpoint causes. Unlike a postmortem, which reviews issues after the fact, this proactive practice helps align your team on risk prevention, accountability, and actionable next steps.
What problem does a Premortem solve for Project Teams?
Project teams often get blindsided by unanticipated risks, missed details, or unclear goals. A premortem solves these challenges by giving everyone time to visualize worst-case outcomes, identify specific root causes, and lock in prevention tactics—all before they impact delivery.
How do Project Managers run a Premortem exercise for risk mitigation?
Kicking off with a clear project goal, gather your team and walk through these steps:
Imagine the project has failed. Paint a vivid “what went wrong” story together.
List every potential reason for failure. Encourage all voices, and consolidate similar risks.
Group and prioritize risks based on likelihood and potential impact.
Brainstorm targeted prevention strategies, assigning clear owners for every action.
Develop an action plan and schedule regular follow-up checkpoints for accountability.
Doing this at the start of a project leads to better outcomes, stronger ownership, and more resilient project plans.
FAQs about running a premortem for project managers
When should teams do a premortem? Ideally, hold a premortem during project kickoff or key milestones when stakes are high and input from different functions is critical.
Who should be in the room during a premortem? Invite the core project team, stakeholders, and anyone with relevant experience or unique perspectives on risk.
How much time does a premortem exercise take for project managers? Most teams can complete a premortem in 60-90 minutes, from brainstorming failure scenarios to finalizing action items.
What’s the best way to facilitate lively participation in a premortem? Use open questions, encourage candid discussion, and foster psychological safety so all risks—however unlikely—get airtime.
How do you document outcomes from a premortem process? Capture risks, actions, and owners in your project management tool, and set calendar reminders for follow-up.
How do you ensure premortem actions actually happen? Assign clear owners, set deadlines, and review progress at regular intervals—weekly, bi-weekly, or at milestone meetings.
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