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?

  1. Add the item to the risk register and perform qualitative analysis.
  2. Record the problem in the issue log and assign an owner for action.
  3. Submit an immediate change request to modify the scope.
  4. 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.

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