Understanding the difference between issue and risk is crucial for the PMP exam and real-world project management. They are closely related but fundamentally different in timing, handling, and impact.
✅ Key Difference: Timing
| Concept | Definition | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Risk | A potential event that may happen in the future and affect the project (positively or negatively) | Uncertain / Future |
| Issue | A current problem that is already happening and must be addressed | Known / Present |
🔍 Detailed Comparison
| Factor | Risk | Issue |
|---|---|---|
| Timeframe | Future (uncertain) | Present (has occurred) |
| Nature | Threat or opportunity | Obstacle/problem |
| Plan to manage | Risk Register + Risk Response Plan | Issue Log + Issue Resolution Plan |
| Responsibility | Risk Owner | Issue Owner |
| PMP Process Group | Planning / Monitoring | Executing / Monitoring / Controlling |
| Examples | – Supplier may delay delivery |
- Key resource may leave
- Regulatory change may impact scope | – Supplier missed delivery
- Resource already left
- Scope was impacted by new law |
🧠 PMP-Style Practice Question
A key developer just informed you that they are resigning next week, which will impact a critical project task. How should this be classified?
A) Risk
B) Issue
C) Assumption
D) Change Request
✅ Correct Answer: B – Issue
Explanation: The resignation is a current, confirmed event. It must be tracked in the issue log and managed with corrective actions.
🛠 Tools in PMP
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Risk Register | Lists identified risks, impact, probability, and response |
| Issue Log | Tracks issues, status, priority, owner, resolution |
✅ Summary Cheat Sheet
| If it… | Then it’s a… |
|---|---|
| Might happen | Risk |
| Is happening | Issue |
| Might help | Opportunity (a type of risk) |
| Needs action now | Issue |
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