A formal risk management process for instrumentation projects at the Anglo-Australian Observatory

David R. Orr; Anthony Heng

doi:10.1117/12.856226

4 August 2010 A formal risk management process for instrumentation projects at the Anglo-Australian Observatory

David R. Orr, Anthony Heng

Proceedings Volume 7738, Modeling, Systems Engineering, and Project Management for Astronomy IV; 77381V (2010) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.856226
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2010, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Risk management is a dynamic activity that takes place throughout the development process from the concept phase to the retirement phase of the project. The successful management of risk is a critical part of the instrumentation development process at the AAO. The AAO has a risk management process based on the AS/ISO standard for risk management. Brainstorming sessions are conducted with the project team. Potential project risks are identified by the team and grouped into the categories of technical, political, operational, logistical, environmental, and safety. A risk matrix is populated with details of each risk. The risk is then ranked based on the consequence and likelihood according to the scale of Low, Moderate, Significant, and High. The level of risk is evaluated; mitigation control mechanisms are identified, and assigned to a specific team member for resolution. Risk management is used as a management tool for the HERMES project. The top 5 risks are identified, and management efforts are then concentrating on reducing these risks. Risk management is also used during the development process as a trade study tool to evaluate different design options and assist senior management to make informed decisions.

Citation Download Citation

David R. Orr and Anthony Heng "A formal risk management process for instrumentation projects at the Anglo-Australian Observatory", Proc. SPIE 7738, Modeling, Systems Engineering, and Project Management for Astronomy IV, 77381V (4 August 2010); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.856226

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