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Poole College of Management
Enterprise Risk Management Initiative

Case Studies

Dec 21, 2010

Case Study Illustrations of Launching ERM

The AICPA's Business, Industry & Government Team commissioned faculty in the ERM Initiative to develop case study illustrations of how organizations have successfully launched ERM. Case Studies on ERM Implementations: Practical Illustrations for Launching Effective Enterprise Risk Oversight takes readers directly into the experience of a company as it is starting ERM and details each step of initiating and implementing enterprise-wide risk oversight. The central case study highlights several practical illustrations for jump-starting ERM. The guide also includes two shorter case studies to further enhance your understanding of ERM implementation.

Jul 1, 2010

How Did BP’s Risk Management Lead to Failure?

The news has been flooded with updates on the environmental impact of the BP oil spill on the gulf coast and the economic impact on businesses in the surrounding areas. Many are wondering: How could something like this happen? Why has it taken so long to fix? What was BP management thinking? The answers to these questions are centered on one element the financial world has been buzzing about since the financial crisis: risk management. This article points out the critical components of risk management that were absent at BP and compares them to the basic principles any company should employ to successfully manage risks.

Dec 1, 2009

Six Sigma and Risk Assessments

Textron Inc. leverages its DFSS methodology for a robust risk assessment process, improving audit efficiency and aligning risk management with strategic business objectives. Discover how Textron reduced costs and enhanced risk oversight.

Oct 2, 2009

Strengthening Risk Oversight: Practical Lessons from Cree, Inc.

Scott McKay of Cree, Inc. discusses effective ERM strategies, focusing on identifying entity-wide risks, using heat maps for risk assessment, and communicating risk ownership to drive strategic decision-making.

May 1, 2009

Getting Risk Appetite Right

Learn how to improve risk appetite frameworks by addressing common failures, enhancing risk identification, aligning management actions, and ensuring boards effectively challenge leadership. Discover PwC's key insights for more robust risk management practices.

Apr 24, 2009

Role of Culture and Judgment in ERM

Discover how KBR integrated ERM into its governance, focusing on culture and communication. David Fox shares valuable lessons learned from KBR’s journey to enhance risk awareness and strategic decision-making.

Sep 22, 2006

Wachovia Corporation’s Approach to ERM

Discover how Wachovia Corporation integrates ERM to manage credit, market, and operational risks while fostering a strong risk culture and governance through board-led oversight and strategic risk committees.

Mar 24, 2006

Home Depot’s Approach to ERM

David Whatley, vice president for risk management at Atlanta-based Home Depot Inc., spoke on March 24th to 130 business professionals at the second of three Spring 2006 ERM Roundtables. Whatley described Home Depot’s approach to managing risks at the world’s largest home improvement retailer.

Jul 1, 2005

ERM – UnitedHealth Group

UnitedHealth Group has implemented ERM within the organization to help identify risks and alleviate negative exposures while profiting from positive opportunities. ERM implementation at UnitedHealth Group evolved out of their Business Risk Management processes used in their six diverse operating businesses.

Dec 31, 2003

Using Technology to Support ERM: A Case Study

Companies face added complexity to overall risks threatening an enterprise. Management needs a risk management program that is complete and proactive toward risk. This article highlights steps that Zions Bancorporation took to develop an application to facilitate risk management.