I recommend two techniques to minimize avoidable failures. (There are factors outside of your control which create risks; these are also useful to devise strategies to mitigate risks you cannot eliminate.)
The first technique is the “pre-mortem.”
Use your Imagination to think forward in time, asking the question “What are all the reasons this project or plan could fail?” Test all your assumptions. Check from every perspective. It helps to make this a group exercise because every individual is somewhat blind to risks, or miscalculates. Use your leadership position to make it safe to surface problems and discuss weaknesses.
Adjust your plans based on what you discover in the pre-mortem.
The second technique is to designate “the devil’s advocate” to intentionally scrutinize and criticize.
The phrase “the devil’s advocate” has a delightful origin. Centuries ago, the Catholic church leadership realized that the process of canonizing saints had become pure politics, only looking at the good works of candidates. They established a new practice. The pope appointed a cardinal to act as the “devil’s advocate” to speak about a candidate as the devil would — flaws, faults, etc.
Consider this strategy when you are planning an event, a project, or a change management effort. Consciously appoint someone as a designated critic to find every flaw or potential problem. This can work better than an all-group “pre-mortem” because the designated person has been given the assignment to say hard things and point out problems.
If you’re working alone, then consciously adopt the persona of the devil’s advocate to critique your own plan. Use both techniques to sharpen your plan, eliminate avoidable failures, and mitigate risks from factors you cannot fully control.
