How to guide
Introduction
A Programme Parking Lot Log is a valuable tool used in programme management to capture and store ideas, issues, or tasks that arise during the course of a programme but are not immediately actionable or relevant to the current phase of the project. This log helps ensure that important thoughts and potential future actions are not forgotten and can be revisited when appropriate.
Purpose
The primary purpose of a Programme Parking Lot Log is to provide a structured approach for managing ideas, concerns, and tasks that are identified but cannot be addressed right away. It serves as a placeholder for these items, allowing the programme team to focus on current priorities while still preserving valuable information for future consideration.
Key Components
- Parking Item ID: A unique identifier for each action item to ensure easy tracking and reference.
- Created: timestamp of when the action was first created.
- Category: Action category to allow filtering on action types or meetings
- Parking Item Description: A detailed explanation of the action, providing enough context to understand its importance and relevance.
- Update: An update on the progress of the action or additional notes or comments related to the action item, such as updates on progress, challenges encountered, or any other relevant information.
- Owner: The individual or team responsible for carrying out the action. This ensures clear ownership and accountability.
- Due Date: The deadline by which the action must be completed. This helps in prioritising tasks and managing timelines effectively. Due dates should be contracted with the owner and should not be changed.
- Priority: Identification of actions that are high priority or need to be escalated through other governance forums.
- Days: The days until the target date for the action closure.
- Closed: A timestamp when the action is closed.
Benefits
- Organised Record-Keeping: Ensures that all ideas, issues, and tasks are documented and can be easily retrieved for future reference.
- Enhanced Focus: Allows the team to concentrate on current priorities without losing sight of potential future actions.
- Improved Decision-Making: Provides a repository of ideas and issues that can be reviewed and addressed when resources and time permit.
- Increased Accountability: Assigns responsibility for each item, ensuring that they are monitored and revisited as needed.By maintaining a well-organized Programme Parking Lot Log, programme managers can effectively capture and manage items that are not immediately actionable, ensuring that valuable ideas and potential issues are not overlooked.
Projectoolkit | Parking Lot
Projectoolkit | How to Guides
