One will get the above error when the Device ID is not read back properly. The probable workarounds are,
1) Within the
ispVM go to the pull down menu Project -> Project Settings, select Advanced and increase the TCK low pulse width to try slowing the clock.
2) Confirm the voltage levels of Vcc and GND on your board.
3) Check the instruction length to other non Lattice devices in case you have multiple devices on your board.
4) A 4.7K ohm pull-up resistor should be used on the TMS signal and a 4.7K ohm pull-down resistor on the TCK signal on the target board.