Issue Log
A project document used to capture, track, and update information about issues until they are resolved.
Key Points
- Stores each issue's description, owner, priority, impact, target date, and current status.
- Maintained throughout the project to monitor, escalate, and drive issues to closure.
- Different from a risk register: issues are present problems; risks are uncertain future events.
- Supports stakeholder communication and may link to change requests and lessons learned.
Example
During system testing, a critical interface fails intermittently, blocking progress. The project manager records the problem in the issue log, assigns the integration lead as owner, sets a high priority, notes the testing impact, and tracks updates and resolution dates until the fix is verified.
PMP Example Question
During execution, a stakeholder reports a defect that is preventing testing. What should the project manager do first?
- Add the item to the risk register and perform qualitative analysis.
- Record the problem in the issue log and assign an owner for action.
- Submit an immediate change request to modify the scope.
- Escalate the matter to the steering committee.
Correct Answer: B — Record the problem in the issue log and assign an owner
Explanation: An active problem blocking work is an issue, not a risk. The first step is to log it, assign ownership, and begin tracking it to resolution.
