Powerful Estimating Techniques and Methods
Options for Issue Log
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Details of Issue Log will depend on intended audience and general communication needs of project. |
Let's take a look at the available tool options for our Issue Log. The most popular options are word processor, spreadsheet, database, and collaboration/workflow tools. There are advantages to each and each can be appropriate in the right scenario. Table 13.2 provides a comparison summary for our Issue Log options.
|
Options |
Pros |
Cons |
Best Scenario |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Word processor |
Low cost Simple Portable "quick and dirty" |
Limited filtering, reporting capabilities Limited access, visibility Cumbersome as log grows Manual processes needed |
Cost is key factor Team is co-located Only one person needs to update log Collaboration needs are minimal Low complexity level in issues tracked |
|
Spreadsheet |
Low cost Simple Leverage sorting, filtering, and reporting capabilities of spreadsheet pgm Portable |
Limited access, visibility Cumbersome as log grows Manual processes needed |
Cost is key factor Team is co-located Only one person needs to update log Collaboration needs are minimal Some need for sorting and filtering of data |
|
Database |
Allows for multi-user updates Better data relationships Better reporting Enforce process and business rules |
Increased setup and admin time Increased costs Not as portable Training may be needed |
Many team members need to have access and update capabilities |
|
Collaboration Tools |
Web-enabled All advantages of database tool Map process flow Automatic notifications |
Increased setup and admin time Increased costs Training may be needed |
Workflow process is more involved Team is distributed, virtual Communication needs are non-trivial |
caution
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These are the issue types that tend to linger and that can come back to bite you. Take charge of these right away. |