Pre-Mortem Guide
Learn from failure before it happens.
Objective
To help individuals analyse failed or underperforming projects by tracing issues back to their origins, identifying preventable missteps, and developing future-proof strategies.
Problem Statement
People often struggle to understand why a project or deal failed, leading to repeated mistakes, frustration, and missed growth opportunities.
Solution Provided
This guide walks users through a structured reflection process, starting from the point of failure and working backward through key decisions, assumptions, and actions. By deconstructing the missteps, users gain clarity, insight, and strategies to avoid similar pitfalls in the future.
The Science
The Pre-Mortem Guide is grounded in principles of prospective hindsight, a method popularized by psychologist Gary Klein, where imagining that a project has failed allows people to identify potential problems more effectively. The tool also draws on root cause analysis and cognitive behavioral techniques, which emphasize awareness, reflection, and strategic planning to improve future outcomes.
Time Commitment
30–45 minutes.
Facilitation Level
Light Facilitation (can be self-guided, but benefits from team discussion or light moderation)
Materials Needed
- The printed Pre-Mortem Guide or digital version
- Pen/pencil or digital note-taking tool
- Optional: Whiteboard or sticky notes (for group settings)
Detailed Instructions for Using the Tool
- Set the Scene
Start by identifying a project, deal, or initiative that didn’t go as planned. This could range from a total failure to a result that fell short of expectations. - Describe the Failure
In a few sentences, summarize the outcome. What went wrong? What was the impact? Be specific. - Identify the Key Moments
Using the guide, list the major decisions, assumptions, and actions taken from the start of the project to its failure. - Backtrack Step-by-Step
For each moment, ask:- What was the rationale at the time?
- Were there any warning signs or doubts?
- What alternative action could have been taken?
- Root Cause Analysis
Use “Why?” questioning (at least 5 levels deep) to uncover deeper causes of the failure, not just surface-level issues. - Highlight Preventable Mistakes
Mark which problems were foreseeable or avoidable with better planning, communication, or foresight. - Create a “Prevention Plan”
Translate your insights into actionable strategies you can apply in future projects. Include:- New questions to ask during planning
- Triggers for course correction
- Specific warning signs to monitor
- (Optional) Group Debrief
If used in a team setting, invite participants to share their takeaways and discuss changes to processes, roles, or communications.
Planning to run this game/activity? Listen to the audio instructions below for a smooth and effective session.
