What are the best ways to track deadlines for problem-solving projects?

3 Create a timeline and milestones

The third step to track deadlines is to create a timeline and milestones for your project. A timeline is a visual representation of your project schedule, showing the start and end dates, the duration, and the dependencies of each task. A milestone is a significant event or achievement that marks the completion of a phase or a deliverable of your project. By creating a timeline and milestones, you can see the big picture of your project, identify potential risks and delays, and celebrate your achievements.

4 Prioritize and delegate

The fourth step to track deadlines is to prioritize and delegate your tasks. Prioritizing means deciding which tasks are the most important and urgent, and which ones can be postponed or eliminated. You can use a matrix or a list to rank your tasks according to their impact and effort. Delegating means assigning tasks to other people who have the skills, availability, and authority to complete them. You can use a RACI matrix or a chart to define the roles and responsibilities of each team member.

5 Review and adjust

The fifth step to track deadlines is to review and adjust your project plan regularly. Reviewing means checking the status of your tasks, comparing the actual performance with the expected performance, and identifying any gaps or issues. Adjusting means making changes to your plan, such as adding or removing tasks, reallocating resources, or extending or shortening deadlines. You can use a dashboard or a report to track and measure your key performance indicators (KPIs) and evaluate your outcomes.

6 Communicate and collaborate

The sixth step to track deadlines is to communicate and collaborate with your team and stakeholders. Communicating means sharing information, feedback, and updates with the people who are involved or affected by your project. Collaborating means working together, solving problems, and making decisions with your team and stakeholders. You can use various tools and methods to communicate and collaborate, such as email, chat, video call, meeting, or brainstorming session.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?