However whether that is practically possible is a risk itself. In the event field as in so many project based industries the identification and management of risks is a high priority for management. There are special circumstances at events that add to the importance of risk management such as Large crowds Use of Volunteers and inadequately trained staff Untried venues and sites Quick decisions and inadequate time, particularly as the event gets closer Complex and specialist activity Thrills and Spills - i.e. activity that is meant to seem like it is a risk. The lack of time to make well considered choices as the event approaches combines with the cost of making any changes, leads to a high risk period just prior to the start of an event. When combined the above points provide a very good reason to identify and control as many problems as possible.
Risk Management is as much about identifying opportunities as avoiding or mitigating losses.
The stress on identifying opportunities is important to event management as many risks can be a stimulus for the creative process. At a recent event I organised with the local Arts Council in the remote Warrumbungles area of Australia, it poured with rain, hailed and all the rivers flooded. It was an out door event. During the day at the venue, the local artists painted a picture of the magnificent mountain range so that the audience would at least feel that they were in these volcanic mountains. Here was an opportunity to raise money for a local charity.