Using RAID logs for strategic project documentation (with template)

A RAID log is a project management tool used to track and anticipate key factors affecting a project's success, encapsulated within the acronym RAID: Risks, Actions, Issues, and Decisions. It serves as a central repository that helps project teams monitor potential risks, ensuring they are identified, assessed, and mitigated, while also cataloging necessary actions, resolving specific issues, and tracking decisions made by stakeholders. The log is typically maintained in a spreadsheet format, allowing for flexibility and adaptability to suit various organizational needs. Its effectiveness relies on regular updates and reviews, making it essential for maintaining project health and ensuring team accountability. While beneficial for those who prefer structured tracking of project elements, the decision to use a RAID log ultimately depends on individual project management preferences and existing systems like Jira or DevOps.