{"id":106,"date":"2022-07-07T16:00:51","date_gmt":"2022-07-07T16:00:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/?p=106"},"modified":"2026-04-09T08:21:23","modified_gmt":"2026-04-09T08:21:23","slug":"project-management-checklist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/project-management-checklist\/","title":{"rendered":"14-Step Project Management Checklist for Staying Organized (+ Free Template)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Starting a new project can be stressful, especially if you don\u2019t have years of experience <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/what-is-project-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">managing projects<\/a>. There is a lot to keep track of, and you may not know where to start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, we have a companion to help you not get overwhelmed \u2014 <strong>a project checklist<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, you will find an ultimate project checklist incorporating all the steps you should follow on your project journey.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition, we listed the documentation you need for any project \u2014 so, we have <strong>a project management documentation checklist<\/strong> for you as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s begin!<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-management-checklist-cover.png\" alt=\"Project management checklist - cover\" class=\"wp-image-10428\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-management-checklist-cover.png 1200w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-management-checklist-cover-600x300.png 600w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-management-checklist-cover-1110x555.png 1110w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-management-checklist-cover-768x384.png 768w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-management-checklist-cover-18x9.png 18w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-management-checklist-cover-120x60.png 120w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-is-a-project-management-checklist\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is a project management checklist?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you like to make lists for running errands, you will be delighted to find out that <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/what-project-managers-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project managers<\/a> use checklists too. The content is different, but the goal is the same \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-organized-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">staying organized at work<\/a> and up to date with actions you have to take.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Project managers use project checklists as a reminder of what needs to be done to stay on track with all the:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Goals,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tasks,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deadlines, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Resources required to complete a project.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Just as your grocery shopping list serves to organize what you need to buy and monitor what you are spending your money on, a project checklist helps you manage and monitor your project\u2019s progress.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words, a project checklist prevents you from running around like a headless chicken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s learn how to create a checklist for your project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-to-create-a-project-management-checklist\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to create a project management checklist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Creating a project management checklist isn\u2019t rocket science.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To do so, you should include the right project management steps into the checklist \u2014 and here they are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Step #1: Set the project\u2019s vision, goals, and objectives,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #2: Identify project stakeholders,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #3: Identify project requirements,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #4: Define deliverables,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #5: Determine the budget,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #6: Identify and allocate other resources,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #7: Create a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS),<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #8: Create a project schedule,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #9: Create a risk management plan,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #10: Set a communication plan,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #11 Create and manage a project checklist with the help of project management software,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #12: Gather project documentation,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #13: Use a project management checklist template, and<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step #14: Keep track of the project progress.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>14 steps may seem like a lot, but worry not \u2014 we will explain all of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"container plaky-gradient-default pt-5 ps-lg-5 z-0 mb-5 pb-lg-4 pr-0\" >\n    <div class=\"d-flex flex-column flex-lg-row align-items-center justify-content-center justify-content-lg-between gap-1 gap-lg-5\">\n        <div class=\"banner-text text-center text-lg-start text-white\">\n            <span class=\"translation-block lh-1 fs-16 text-white\">\n                Free project management software            <\/span>\n            <p class=\"translation-block mw-300 fs-12 mb-2\">Track your progress and achieve better project results with Plaky by CAKE.com.<\/p>\n            <div class=\"cta-btns pt-4 d-flex align-items-center justify-content-center justify-content-lg-start gap-4 mb-4 mb-lg-0\">\n                <a aria-label=\"Sign up\" href=\"https:\/\/app.plaky.com\/signup\" class=\"btn rounded py-1 px-2 fs-12 btn-light\">\n                    Sign up                <\/a>\n                                <a aria-label=\"Learn more\" class=\"text-white px-2 fs-12\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\">\n                    Learn more                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/default@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Plaky logo\" media=\"(min-width: 998px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"max-w-350 img-fluid px-lg-0\" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/default.png\" alt=\"Plaky screenshot\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-1-set-the-projects-vision-goals-and-objectives\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #1: Set the project\u2019s vision, goals, and objectives<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just as you have a destination for your journey, you need to know what you want to accomplish upon completing a project \u2014 and that\u2019s your project\u2019s vision.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, start with collecting answers to the following questions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What are we trying to achieve with the project, and why?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How is the project aligned with the company\u2019s mission?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How will the project benefit the stakeholders?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Who will be most impacted by this project?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Then, you have to set project goals and objectives.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Following the S.M.A.R.T. criteria is always a good idea. It stands for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>S<\/strong>pecific,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>M<\/strong>easurable,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A<\/strong>ttainable,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>R<\/strong>elevant, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>T<\/strong>ime-based.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"368\" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/SMART-goals.png\" alt=\"S.M.A.R.T goals\" class=\"wp-image-104\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/SMART-goals.png 700w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/SMART-goals-300x158.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">S.M.A.R.T goals<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>When setting project goals and objectives, consider your existing and allotted resources and the time you have to complete the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-2-identify-project-stakeholders\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #2: Identify project stakeholders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Managing stakeholders is a critical part of project management. How project managers deal with it can distinguish between project success and failure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But, who are project stakeholders?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Project stakeholders are people interested in a project that have an influence on the project\u2019s outcome.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Project managers must keep them in the loop about the project. Additionally, they must get stakeholders\u2019 feedback and secure project buy-in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Project managers also need to identify:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The level of influence, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Interest stakeholders have in the project.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When dealing with that, it is vital to consider two things:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Stakeholder priority can change during the project phases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stakeholder interests can change throughout the project, as well.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 Plaky Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read more about project stakeholders in our guide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/stakeholder-in-project-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">What Is a Stakeholder in Project Management?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-3-identify-project-requirements\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #3: Identify project requirements<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In this step, you need to do the research and gather specifications and requirements for the project team.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Project requirements refer to the conditions or tasks that must be fulfilled to ensure the completion of a project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you get started with a project, you must identify a few things:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What is the purpose of your project?&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What is required?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What are <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/critical-success-factors-in-project-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project success factors<\/a>?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What are <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/reasons-for-project-failure\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project failure<\/a> factors?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s no universal method for collecting project requirements from stakeholders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But, this process usually includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Identifying stakeholders\u2019 needs,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Documenting their needs and requirements,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Managing needs and requirements during the project to meet the project\u2019s goals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-4-define-deliverables\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #4: Define deliverables<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The next step you should take is to determine project deliverables.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To do so, you need to answer the following question:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What results will the project produce?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The answer to this question are the project deliverables.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>According to the definition,<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/deliverable-in-project-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project deliverables<\/a> tick the following boxes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>They are different types of outputs \u2014 tangible or intangible,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They represent independent steps towards achieving any organizational objective,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They are submitted within the project scope.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Stakeholders must agree to them,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They must be a result of deliberate work, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They must help accomplish the project\u2019s objective.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Some examples of deliverables in launching a new website project may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Initial design,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Website wireframe,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keyword research report, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Content audit.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-5-determine-the-project-budget\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #5: Determine the project budget<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, it\u2019s time to set the budget for your project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After all, there is no project without any costs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, carefully executed <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/project-management-budgeting-methods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project budgeting<\/a> is one of the most important tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When determining a budget, you should consider the two types of costs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Direct costs, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Indirect costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Direct project costs are costs that are directly attributed to the project. They may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Labor costs,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Software costs,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consultant fees,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hardware costs,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Equipment rental costs, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project-related travel costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Indirect project costs are not directly attributed to the particular project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some examples of indirect project costs are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Renting office space costs,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Administrative costs, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Utilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to direct and indirect costs, a small amount of money as a contingency reserve is also great to have.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A contingency reserve is a budgeted amount dedicated to cover cost overages or unfavorable budget variances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"container plaky-gradient-landing-1 pt-5 ps-lg-5 z-0 mb-5  \" >\n    <div class=\"d-flex flex-column flex-lg-row align-items-center justify-content-center justify-content-lg-between gap-1 gap-lg-5\">\n        <div class=\"banner-text text-center text-lg-start text-white\">\n            <span class=\"translation-block lh-1 fs-16 text-white\">\n                Free project management software            <\/span>\n            <p class=\"translation-block mw-300 fs-12 mb-2\">Track your progress and achieve better project results with Plaky by CAKE.com.<\/p>\n            <div class=\"cta-btns pt-4 d-flex align-items-center justify-content-center justify-content-lg-start gap-4 mb-4 mb-lg-0\">\n                <a aria-label=\"Sign up\" href=\"https:\/\/app.plaky.com\/signup\" class=\"btn rounded py-1 px-2 fs-12 btn-light\">\n                    Sign up                <\/a>\n                                <a aria-label=\"Learn more\" class=\"text-white px-2 fs-12\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\">\n                    Learn more                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-1@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Plaky logo\" media=\"(min-width: 998px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"max-w-350 img-fluid \" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-1.png\" alt=\"Plaky screenshot\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-6-identify-and-allocate-other-resources\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #6: Identify and allocate other resources<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In an ideal situation, we would have unlimited resources.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In reality \u2014 that\u2019s not the case.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, we need to prepare a <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/resource-allocation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">resource allocation<\/a> plan.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A resource allocation plan pinpoints, organizes, and lists the resources required to complete a project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, we need to describe the type of resources necessary for the project and specify when we will need them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the project schedule is not fixed, the resource plan must be flexible and adjust as changes happen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some examples of <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/project-resources\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project resources<\/a> include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>People who will work on a project,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Materials,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Machinery, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Technology.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Resource planning perks include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Maximum resource utilization,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>More accurate <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/project-timeline\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project timeline<\/a> estimate,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>More precise budget estimates, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Faster project flow with fewer mistakes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-7-create-a-work-breakdown-structure-wbs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #7: Create a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a graphic representation of a project divided into smaller, more manageable chunks. We create it during the project planning phase.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two main types of Work Breakdown Structures:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Deliverable-oriented, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Phase-oriented.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Using a WBS comes in handy, especially for complex projects, as a WBS helps you visualize the project and better understand what you must do.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-levels-of-a-Work-Breakdown-Structure-WBS.png\" alt=\"An example of the levels of a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)\" class=\"wp-image-105\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-levels-of-a-Work-Breakdown-Structure-WBS.png 700w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-levels-of-a-Work-Breakdown-Structure-WBS-300x171.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An example of the levels of a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Having a WBS can help you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Develop a project schedule,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set clear benchmarks and <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/project-milestones\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project milestones<\/a>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identify <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/dependencies-in-project-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">task dependencies<\/a>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identify <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/risk-in-project-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project risks<\/a>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improve team organization and productivity by enabling team members to understand what lies ahead, when, and why, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improve timeline and budget estimates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 Plaky Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For a more detailed explanation of a WBS, check out our guide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/work-breakdown-structure-in-project-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) in Project Management<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-8-create-a-project-schedule\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #8: Create a project schedule<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Having a project schedule helps teams stay on track during the project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A project schedule is a timetable that shows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Start and end date of all project tasks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Task dependencies, and,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Which team members and other resources are responsible for delivery.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Setting a project schedule becomes easy with the help of <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/creative-project-management-software\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">task management software<\/a>, as you can do everything you need in one place:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Specify tasks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set start and end dates,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Assign tasks to team members,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identify dependencies, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allocate resources across tasks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Plaky Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to creating a schedule, you should also decide on ways to check whether or not the project is progressing on schedule. One way to do this is by calculating schedule variance (SV), which you can learn how to do in this guide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/schedule-variance\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/schedule-variance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">What Is Schedule Variance (SV)? Formula and Examples<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-9-create-a-risk-management-plan\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #9: Create a risk management plan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ignoring risks doesn\u2019t make them mysteriously disappear.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Risk management is <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/project-management-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">a project management tip<\/a> you don\u2019t want to skip \u2014 at least if you don\u2019t secretly wish your project would fail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You must identify <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/risk-in-project-management\/\">project risks<\/a> and be prepared to deal with them.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A risk management plan:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Identifies possible risks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Analyzes the chances of them happening, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Details strategies for avoiding risks or reducing their impact.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Some examples of project risks include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cost risks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Schedule risks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scope creep risks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Performance risks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Communication risks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Security risks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Technology risks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Resource risks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Legal\/regulatory risks, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Market risks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Brainstorming and identifying potential risks could help prevent some of the most frequent project pitfalls, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Unrealistic deadlines,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor communication,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lack of money, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/scope-creep-in-project-management\/\">Scope creep<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 Plaky Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check our detailed guide about risk management:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/risk-management-in-project-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Project Risk Management \u2014 An 8-Step Process to Success<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-10-set-a-communication-plan\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #10: Set a communication plan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Effective team communication matters, and projects are no exception.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For this reason, you must prepare a communication management plan and establish rules for communication during the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A communication management plan:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Outlines how the project team should communicate,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Specifies when and how frequently updates will be provided,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lets project stakeholders know whom they should contact for which purpose, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Determines the format of communication (in-app, email, video conferencing, phone, or in-person).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-blockquote\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Plaky Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To learn more about the importance of communication in project management, check out our blog post on the subject:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/communication-in-project-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Why Is Communication Important in Project Management?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-11-create-and-manage-a-project-checklist-with-the-help-of-project-management-software\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #11: Create and manage a project checklist with the help of project management software<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Using <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/best-project-management-tools-for-small-teams\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project management software<\/a> enables creating and managing a project checklist in one place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s explain the process of creating a project checklist in <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Plaky<\/a> by <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAKE.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can start by adding a new board within your space.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To do so, simply click <em>+Add<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"864\" height=\"466\" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Creating-a-new-board-in-Plaky.png\" alt=\"Creating a new board in Plaky\" class=\"wp-image-6305\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Creating-a-new-board-in-Plaky.png 864w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Creating-a-new-board-in-Plaky-300x162.png 300w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Creating-a-new-board-in-Plaky-768x414.png 768w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Creating-a-new-board-in-Plaky-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 864px) 100vw, 864px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Creating a new board in Plaky<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Then, you can adjust the newly created project board to suit your needs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First, you have to set the item groups.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For this purpose, you can use the names of the steps previously mentioned in this blog post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Set the project\u2019s vision, goals, and objectives,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identify project stakeholders,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identify project requirements,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Define deliverables,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Determine the budget,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identify and allocate other resources,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create a project schedule,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create a risk management plan,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set a communication plan, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep track of the project progress.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Then you should add the labels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, you can pick the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Note<\/strong> \u2014 to provide additional information regarding the activity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Urgency <\/strong>\u2014 to specify how important the step is.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>By when<\/strong> \u2014 to set the due date for every item in our checklist, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Status <\/strong>\u2014 to determine the status of all activities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1136\" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blank-project-checklist-in-Plaky.png\" alt=\"Blank project checklist in Plaky\" class=\"wp-image-6375\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blank-project-checklist-in-Plaky.png 1200w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blank-project-checklist-in-Plaky-300x284.png 300w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blank-project-checklist-in-Plaky-1024x969.png 1024w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blank-project-checklist-in-Plaky-768x727.png 768w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blank-project-checklist-in-Plaky-13x12.png 13w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Blank project checklist in Plaky<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Then, you can start adding tasks within your item groups and set urgency, status, and the due date for every action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When all set, your project checklist may look like this:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1136\" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-one.png\" alt=\"Project checklist in Plaky part one\" class=\"wp-image-6377\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-one.png 1200w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-one-300x284.png 300w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-one-1024x969.png 1024w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-one-768x727.png 768w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-one-13x12.png 13w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Project checklist in Plaky part one<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1076\" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-two.png\" alt=\"Project checklist in Plaky part two\" class=\"wp-image-6379\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-two.png 1200w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-two-300x269.png 300w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-two-1024x918.png 1024w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-two-768x689.png 768w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-two-13x12.png 13w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Project checklist in Plaky part two<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1076\" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-three.png\" alt=\"Project checklist in Plaky part three\" class=\"wp-image-6378\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-three.png 1200w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-three-300x269.png 300w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-three-1024x918.png 1024w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-three-768x689.png 768w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-three-13x12.png 13w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Project checklist in Plaky part three<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"742\" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-four.png\" alt=\"Project checklist in Plaky part four\" class=\"wp-image-6376\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-four.png 1200w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-four-300x186.png 300w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-four-1024x633.png 1024w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-four-768x475.png 768w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-in-Plaky-part-four-18x12.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Project checklist in Plaky part four<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>As you can see, by using project management software to create a project checklist, you can have all the critical information in one place and avoid getting lost in the mountain of papers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-12-gather-project-documentation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #12: Gather project documentation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The documents you should consider including in your project documentation checklist include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Project plan,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Business case,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project charter,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RACI matrix,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Risk register,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Change request form,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project status report, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/lessons-learned-in-project-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lessons learned<\/a> register.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"project-plan\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Project plan<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\u201cBy failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<cite><em>\u2014 <\/em>Benjamin Franklin<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s pretty obvious \u2014 you should plan your project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the planning phase, we have one document that rules them all \u2014 a project plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is the most comprehensive of all the project management documents and includes all the documents created during <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/phases-project-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the project planning phase<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The main elements of a project management plan include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A scope management plan,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A requirements management plan,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A schedule management plan,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A cost management plan,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A quality management plan,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A resource management plan,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A communications management plan,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A risk management plan,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A procurement management plan,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A stakeholder engagement plan, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Baselines for scope, schedule, and cost.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The elements and information included in the project management plan may vary depending on the type and complexity of your project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 Plaky Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Find out more about a project management plan and download ready-made templates:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/project-management-plan-templates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">What Is a Project Management Plan? (+ Free Templates)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"business-case\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Business case<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/business-case\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project business case<\/a> is a document that justifies launching a project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The purpose of a business case is to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Describe why the company should spend its resources on a specific project.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Convince the upper management to approve the project.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Address management\u2019s potential concerns regarding any business or financial risks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"project-charter\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Project charter<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A project charter is a document that formally acknowledges the existence of a project and describes it in its entirety.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once approved, it initiates the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When writing a project charter, make sure you include the following sections:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Project title,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>General project information,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project purpose,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/scope-in-project-management\/\">Scope<\/a>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deliverables,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Resources,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Milestones,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Risks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/project-roles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Project team<\/a> structure,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Key stakeholders,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Success measurements, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project approval.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Why do you need a project charter?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It acts as the project\u2019s marketing tool to ensure stakeholders\u2019 approval,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It authorizes the existence of a project and explains its business importance, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It helps prevent scope creep.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 Plaky Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Find out more about project charter in our guide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/project-charter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">What Is a Project Charter? Example + Free Template Included<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"raci-matrix\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">RACI matrix<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A responsibility assignment matrix, also known as a RACI matrix or <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/work-tools-and-templates\/raci-chart-templates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">RACI chart<\/a>, defines critical roles and responsibilities in a project.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The acronym RACI stands for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Responsible<\/strong> \u2014 Refers to people who do the work to complete tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Accountable<\/strong> \u2014 Refers to a person who delegates and reviews the work. For every task, we should have only one accountable person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Consulted<\/strong> \u2014 Refers to people who provide input and feedback on the project work and have a stake in the project outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Informed <\/strong>\u2014 Refers to people who receive updates on project progress, but are not decision-makers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"risk-register\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Risk register<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A risk register documents all potential risks, their likelihood of happening, and the impact they may have on a project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The elements of a project risk register are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Risk identification,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Risk description,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Risk categories (such as operations, budget, security, etc.),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The likelihood of the risk happening,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Risk impact,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Risk priority,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Risk response,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A person responsible for the risk response, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Risk status.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"change-request-form\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Change request form<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Changes to the initially approved scope are inevitable during the project\u2019s progress.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, experiencing scope creep is not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, we need a document that helps us track these changes \u2014&nbsp; i.e. <strong>a change request form<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A change request form is a document we use for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Requesting,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Approving, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Documenting changes to the project.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A change request form should include the following elements:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Project title,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A person who requests a change,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Request name,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Description of a change,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reason for a change,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Change impact,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proposed action,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Associated cost and time, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A person who approves a change.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"project-status-report\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Project status report<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>As its name suggests, a project status report describes how the project progresses over time and compares it against the project plan.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It includes only the most relevant information and keeps everyone on track with how the project progresses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A project status report consists of the following elements:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Project details (project name, start and launch dates, reporting period),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project status summary (key accomplishment, finished and planned work, milestones, deliverables, etc.),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project health (status of project\u2019s budget, schedule, quality, and scope)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Risks, issues, blockers, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conclusions and recommendations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 Plaky Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check our guide and download free project status report templates:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/project-status-report\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Project Status Report: How to Write It, Example and Template<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"lessons-learned-register\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lessons learned register<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Lessons learned register is the document that records the knowledge gained during a project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;Its purpose is to help you improve your future projects by learning what has and hasn\u2019t worked in your past projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-13-use-a-project-management-checklist-template\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #13: Use a project management checklist template<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To make it easier for you, we have prepared a project management checklist template you can edit and download for free.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It incorporates all the steps you need to manage your project, plus, a list of all the documentation you need to have.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"602\" height=\"776\" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-template-page-1.png\" alt=\"Project checklist template page 1\" class=\"wp-image-7209\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-template-page-1.png 602w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-template-page-1-233x300.png 233w, https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Project-checklist-template-page-1-9x12.png 9w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Project checklist template<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1LPIskI5vZManpk017FcDa0Gt3JqpjGSkJs6YeSaizWU\/copy#heading=h.e3caulpu53un\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Get our project checklist template<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-14-keep-track-of-the-project-progress\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #14: Keep track of the project progress<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, it\u2019s time to track the progress of your project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To do so, you should:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Monitor tasks and <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/learn\/project-management\/project-deadline\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">deadlines<\/a>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Update the project schedule as needed, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure project stakeholders are informed about progress.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Fortunately, task management software like Plaky by CAKE.com can assist you with that.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Plaky, there is an option to invite stakeholders as guests or viewers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By doing that, you keep them in the loop with all <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/project-activities\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project activities<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"wrapping-up-a-project-checklist-is-a-project-managers-best-companion\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wrapping up: A project checklist is a project manager\u2019s best companion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A project checklist is a project manager\u2019s best companion for organizing the work that must be done during the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It helps keep track of everything you have to do and prevents you from missing something vital for the project\u2019s success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To save time, download our ultimate project checklist template incorporating all the steps you should follow when managing a project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alternatively, use project management software and enjoy having all the information you need in one place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"container plaky-gradient-landing-4 pt-5 ps-lg-5 z-0 mb-5  \" >\n    <div class=\"d-flex flex-column flex-lg-row align-items-center justify-content-center justify-content-lg-between gap-1 gap-lg-5\">\n        <div class=\"banner-text text-center text-lg-start text-white\">\n            <span class=\"translation-block lh-1 fs-16 text-white\">\n                Free project management software            <\/span>\n            <p class=\"translation-block mw-300 fs-12 mb-2\">Track your progress and achieve better project results with Plaky by CAKE.com.<\/p>\n            <div class=\"cta-btns pt-4 d-flex align-items-center justify-content-center justify-content-lg-start gap-4 mb-4 mb-lg-0\">\n                <a aria-label=\"Sign up\" href=\"https:\/\/app.plaky.com\/signup\" class=\"btn rounded py-1 px-2 fs-12 btn-light\">\n                    Sign up                <\/a>\n                                <a aria-label=\"Download\" class=\"text-white px-2 fs-12\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/apps\">\n                    Download                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-4@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Plaky logo\" media=\"(min-width: 998px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"max-w-350 img-fluid \" src=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-4.png\" alt=\"Plaky screenshot\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    \n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The ultimate project management checklist for better organization + a free project checklist template you can use to help you complete your projects on time.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":10428,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-106","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-project-management"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/106","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=106"}],"version-history":[{"count":57,"href":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/106\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17260,"href":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/106\/revisions\/17260"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10428"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=106"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=106"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plaky.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=106"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}