CS13B - Concurrent Session 13B: In a Room Full of Experts… Tips for Success from PFMA Recorders

In planning and preparing for potential failure mode analysis (PFMA) and other risk analysis (RA) workshops, emphasis is often put on the selection of the facilitator and subject matter experts, with lesser attention given to the selection of the note-taker/recorder. However, the role of the recorder is critical to the success of the workshop and the final report documentation used by dam safety decision-makers. The recorder is often responsible for not only capturing the expert elicitation discussions, basis, and conclusions of the PFMA or RA, but also for efficiently locating supporting project information pertinent to the ongoing discussions during the workshop. This presentation will summarize input from a variety of mid-career to senior engineers that have served as PFMA or RA recorders and facilitators to identify common “best practices” and tips on “what works” for recorders, as well as key qualifications of an ideal note-taker/recorder. The presentation will also include perspectives from dam owners on how recorders can contribute to a successful PFMA or RA workshop.