Strategy · Uncertainty
Pre-Mortem
Imagine your next big project has failed spectacularly. Teams list why, then turn the causes into preventive actions.
Quick answer
How do you run Pre-Mortem with a team?
Imagine your next big project has failed spectacularly. Teams list why, then turn the causes into preventive actions. Duration: 1 hour. Group size: 4–40 people. Setting: Hybrid. Below you will find a step-by-step guide, the materials and facilitator tips.
- Duration
- 1 hour
- Group size
- 4–40 people
- Setting
- Hybrid
- Energy level
- Calm
- Materials
- Sticky notes and pens, or an online board, A wall with three columns: causes, likelihood, actions
- Price
- Free, no sign-up
Objective
Surface hidden risks early in a safe, structured way.
Materials
- Sticky notes and pens, or an online board
- A wall with three columns: causes, likelihood, actions
Step by step
- Describe the project and say: "It is one year later, and it failed. What happened?"
- Everyone writes causes alone for 7 minutes, one per note.
- Share and cluster similar causes on the wall.
- Vote on the 3–5 most likely or damaging causes.
- Small groups write one preventive action and an owner for each.
Facilitator tips
- Silent writing first prevents the loudest voices from steering.
- The leader should speak last.
Variations
- Pre-parade: imagine a huge success and list what made it happen.
Accessibility
Works fully in writing, in person or online, and suits people who prefer to think before they speak.
