What technique can be used for identifying and managing risks during a project?

SWOT analysis stands out as an effective technique for identifying and managing risks during a project because it allows for a structured evaluation of both internal and external factors that can impact the project. The acronym SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. By analyzing these elements, project teams can uncover potential risks categorized as threats—external risks that could negatively affect the project's success—as well as weaknesses, which refer to internal vulnerabilities that may hinder project performance.

In the context of risk management, using SWOT analysis helps teams not only to identify risks but also encourages the development of strategies to mitigate them. For example, by recognizing external threats and leveraging internal strengths, teams can create proactive plans to address potential challenges before they escalate. Additionally, opportunities identified in the analysis can be examined for their potential to enhance the project, further contributing to effective risk management.

The other techniques mentioned, while valuable in their own right, do not specifically focus on the comprehensive identification and management of risks across all applicable dimensions of a project. Gap analysis concentrates on identifying discrepancies between current and desired states but does not directly address risk. Cost-benefit analysis evaluates the financial implications of decisions rather than assessing risk factors. Root cause analysis seeks to identify the underlying causes of problems but