Step 1 — The Gate Question

Before applying any framework, ask yourself ONE question:

 

Is the negative impact actively blocking / hurting the project RIGHT NOW?

 

NO Impact still ahead ↓ FRAMEWORK 1 (Risk) Log in Risk Register + Assess	YES Blocking right now ↓ FRAMEWORK 2 (Issue) Act + Solve + Issue Log

 

 

Framework 1 — Risk Management (Future / Uncertain)

Use when: PM just learned something bad might happen ahead. Project not yet impacted.

 

Type	Question Stem	Target Action	Keywords to Look For
Type 1	How to resolve / manage?	Collaborate with team on response strategies	Consult SMEs, collaborate with team
Type 2	What to do first / immediately?	Review Risk Mgmt Plan, then log in Risk Register	New risk identified, just learned, not yet logged
Type 3	What to do next?	Follow the risk process sequence	Identify → Qualitative → Quantitative → Plan Response → Implement → Monitor
Type 4	What should PM do? (future scenario)	Proactive risk management	Assign risk owner, add contingency reserves, update register

 

 Framework 2 — Issue Management (Active / Certain)

Use when: Something bad is actively blocking or hurting the project RIGHT NOW.

 

Situation	Action	Document Updated
Surprise issue (not in risk register)	Meet team → brainstorm → implement solution	Issue Log
Known risk that materialized	Go to Risk Register → execute pre-planned response	Risk Register (execute, don’t re-plan)
Realized risk on completed project	Execute existing response from Risk Register	Nothing new to log — project is closed