Risk is the effect of uncertainty on the ability of an organization to meet its strategic objectives. The effects of uncertainty are expressed as opportunities and threats. Yet, most people associate risk with hazards and losses (i.e., pure risk). Unlike pure risk, uncertainty risk is not insurable because of its upside risk opportunities. Risk management is a key element of the open-sourced, high-level structure developed by the International Organization for Standardization. This structure for managing important organizational programs has been adopted by over 180 country standard-setting organizations.

This book helps the organization's top leader gather the information needed to identify opportunities and threats and decide on the appropriate risk response in this uncertain world. The two most widely used risk management standards are presented to demonstrate that an organization can use either one or a combination of the two standards to help manage the effects of uncertainty on their organization. It's fool-worthy to attempt to run an organization without formal uncertainty risk management. Let this book help you find your company's way in an uncertain world.