Riskmatriser

Riskmatriser, commonly referred to in English as risk matrices, are decision-support tools used to assess and prioritize risks by combining estimates of probability and potential impact. A typical riskmatrise is a grid in which the horizontal axis represents the likelihood of an event occurring within a defined period, and the vertical axis represents the consequence or severity if it occurs. Each identified risk is scored on both dimensions and placed in the corresponding cell, which is often color-coded to indicate the overall risk level (for example low, medium, high).

Organizations use riskmatriser during risk assessment processes, project planning, safety audits, and compliance activities. The method supports visualization and helps stakeholders agree on which risks require attention and mitigation. It is commonly embedded in a risk register and used to guide prioritization of actions, resource allocation, and monitoring.

Common variations involve 3x3, 4x4, or 5x5 grids, with scales that can be qualitative (low/medium/high) or semi-quantitative (for example likelihood: rare/unlikely/possible/likely/almost certain; impact: negligible/minor/moderate/severe/extreme). Some matrices also include residual risk after mitigation or assign risk owners.

Advantages include simplicity, rapid communication, and a structured basis for prioritization. Limitations include subjectivity in judging likelihood and impact, potential oversimplification of complex risks, and a failure to account for dependencies or dynamic changes. Therefore, riskmatriser are most effective when used with explicit definitions, documented criteria, and integration into a broader risk management system.

In practice, riskmatriser support iterative reviews as part of ongoing governance, with updates reflecting new information and changing conditions.