The Assumptions Log is used to record the project assumptions and constraints. An assumption is something that is assumed to be true, but not proven or known to be true. For example an assumption that:Constraints are restrictions or limitations, for example a fixed date or cost, or a list of suppliers that must be used.It is important to validate assumptions because if they are found not to be correct they can cause delays, additional cost or effort and impact project quality. stakeholdermap.com
- a person with a particular skill set will available
- materials will be available at a certain cost
- a component will be available at a certain date
- the estimated duration for shipping is correct
The Assumption Log should align with the Project Charter, Risk Register and Issue Log. It is referred to throughout the project and may be added to by the project team and other project documentation.
The project assumptions log should be referred to and inform the requirements, scheduling, estimating, resource planning, risk management and scope management.
Use this FREE template to capture all of the key information you need in order to document and track project assumptions.
See what is in the Template! Check out the Contents complete with Hints and Tips on how to use.
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The contents of the Project Assumptions Template
Field
Field Description and Tips to Complete
Project details
Document:
- Project ID
- Project title
- Project manager
- Project sponsor
Assumption ID
Give each assumption a unique ID so that it can be tracked easily and cross referenced.
Category
Enter the category of the assumption. This category will likely be specific the project industry/type so no suggestions are provided here. If a category is not needed this Field can be changed or removed.
Description of assumption/constraint
A clear description of the assumption or constraint. For example 'it is assumed that the internal training team will deliver the administrator training'.
Responsible party
The individual responsible for ensuring that the assumption is validated in the agreed upon manner.
Due date
The date the assumption is need to be validated or is expected to be validated.
Actions to validate the assumptions
Document the actions that need to be carried out to validate the assumption. Include any updates needed to other project documentation for example the Project Charter, Issue Log and Risk Register.
Status
The status of each assumption. For example, Open (not yet validated), Not valid (the assumption is not correct), Valid (this assumption is valid).
Comments
Add any relevant comments here. For example, follow-on actions for assumptions that are not valid. In these cases it may be necessary to review the business case, project charter, risks, issues etc. .
Project Assumptions Template
Excel download - Project Assumptions Template (Excel .xls)
Excel download - Project Assumptions Template (Excel .xlsx)
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