One of the most powerful tools for a project manager is the RAID Log where you can keep track of the Risks, Actions, Issues and Decisions in a project. When you’re overseeing multiple projects, the RAID log will help you keep all the details and notes organized within each project. Keep track of the Risks—things that threaten the timeline or successful delivery. Create and Assign Actions for smaller items that need to be done (read this article for more info on when to use an Action versus a Task or User Story). Issues come up so this is a way to communicate these problems with your team, as well as the client. It’s also important to record Decisions in a shared place that all stakeholders can refer to.
With so many moving pieces, it helps to have a comprehensive RAID log for each project. Using this feature will save you time and ensure your customers have a positive experience with their projects.
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From within the project, select R.A.I.D. from the toolbar. This will show all existing RAID items, which you can sort by Type, Owner and Status.
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To create a new item, click the + icon. Only the Name, Type and Project Task fields are required but you can enter more information if you like.
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Use Template: you can create templates for RAID items that you use frequently.
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Owner: assigning an owner will allow others to see who created the item in case others have questions or want to follow up.
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Customer Visible: sometimes you don’t want your client to see a note that’s intended for your team. Just double-check that it’s off before you hit Save.
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Project Task: you can relate the RAID item to specific task in the project; it’s not necessary but it can be helpful.
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User Story: you can also relate the item to a specific user story if you need to.
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Description: use this field to enter a longer description of the RAID item. Often, the name is just a summary so here’s a place to add more details and explanations.