A seasoned project manager is overseeing a complex hybrid project with multiple dependencies on other projects. How should the project manager reduce the risk from those external dependencies?

The most effective way for a project manager to reduce risk from external dependencies is to proactively assess consolidated project plans. This allows for early identification of dependencies, potential gaps, and ensures continued business value alignment across projects. This comprehensive approach enables the project manager to anticipate issues and develop mitigation strategies. Delegating dependency review entirely to the project sponsor and resource manager abdicates the project manager's responsibility for risk management. While daily interproject reviews can be useful, they are reactive and resource-intensive; a consolidated assessment is more strategic. Requesting the PMO to review is a good step, but the project manager still holds primary accountability for understanding and managing their project's dependencies.