What defines a positive risk in project management?

In project management, a positive risk is understood as an opportunity that can enhance project outcomes. This concept contrasts with the traditional view of risk, which often focuses solely on negative events or threats that could jeopardize project success. Identifying and managing positive risks is an essential aspect of proactive risk management, as these opportunities can provide benefits, such as cost savings, improved efficiency, or added value to project deliverables.

By recognizing potential positive risks, project managers can strategically plan to leverage these opportunities to achieve better results, thus enhancing overall project performance. This perspective highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to risk management, where both potential threats and opportunities are assessed and acted upon effectively.

In contrast, the other options describe scenarios that do not align with the concept of a positive risk: a harmful event represents a threat, an unforeseen problem indicates a negative situation requiring mitigation, and a previously unidentified requirement suggests a gap or oversight rather than an opportunity for benefit. Therefore, the focus on opportunities makes the correct answer clear.