prev next

Reporting

When you’re done with measuring progress, you have to report it to some of the stakeholders. The team members should be aware of the measurement to align their work to it. Some management levels in your organization may require the information, and there may be an external customer as well, all expecting you to report progress to them.

In most cases, a single report doesn’t suit every audience. So it’s a good idea to create different types of reports. After reporting, check to see how it works and whether or not the main messages are properly understood. If not, you’ll need to adjust your reports.

People are busy and easily bored, and therefore, simple, short reports usually work best. Some of your stakeholders may force you to send them long, detailed reports because it gives them a sense of comfort. Do this if you have to, but send them a short, focused version along with it.

Not all reports have to be on paper. Sometimes, you may realize it’s best to add the information on a physical board somewhere people can see (sometimes called an information radiator). If the target audience is not co-located, you can have an online dashboard instead. However, don’t think that because you have a dashboard people will go and check it – maybe you’ll have to email a brief version or a notification as well.

Next: Delivery