Do's and Don'ts of Schedule Updates

Learn the right and wrong ways to update schedules, including best practices for reflecting real progress and avoiding misleading data.

Key Takeaways:

• Update in real time: Input actual start/finish dates and percent complete regularly.
• Stay consistent:  Update at least monthly (weekly if possible) to avoid outdated info.
• Engage the field team: Base changes on input from those doing the work.
• Adjust durations: Reflect real performance, not planned assumptions.
• Consider resources: Apply crew logic and constraints to avoid trade stacking.
• Document changes: Always justify and record schedule modifications.
• Analyze delays monthly: Don’t wait until the project ends to address slippage. Share updates, ensure all stakeholders have access to the latest schedule. Reassess quality, and check schedule quality at every update to prevent hidden issues.