Project Management Starter Kit

Simple operating documents for planning, running, and closing small-to-medium projects.
Page 1 of 4
Project Brief
Use this first: A clear brief prevents scope drift, decision confusion, and mismatched expectations. If the brief is fuzzy, the project will be too.
Project NameProject OwnerDeadlineBudget
Goal / OutcomeSuccess looks like...
Scope INWhat is included?
Scope OUTWhat is explicitly not included?
StakeholdersSuccess MetricsKey DecisionsRisks

Project Assumptions

AssumptionHow We Will Validate It

Communication Rhythm

  • Weekly status update:
  • Decision owner:
  • Escalation path:
  • Reporting cadence:
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Project Timeline Planner

Map tasks, owners, dependencies, and milestone timing across an 8-week window.
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8-Week Timeline
Tip: Mark milestones with initials, symbols, or shading. Dependencies should be visible early so blocked tasks do not surprise the team.
TaskOwnerStatusDependenciesWk 1Wk 2Wk 3Wk 4Wk 5Wk 6Wk 7Wk 8

Status Key

  • Not Started
  • In Progress
  • Blocked
  • Complete

Milestone Row

MilestoneTarget WeekOwner
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Meeting Agenda & Notes Template

Keep meetings decision-focused, capture actions, and prevent next-step confusion.
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2 Meetings Per Page

Meeting 1

DateMeeting PurposeFacilitatorAttendees
Agenda ItemsNotes
Decisions MadeAction ItemOwnerDue DateParking Lot

Meeting 2

DateMeeting PurposeFacilitatorAttendees
Agenda ItemsNotes
Decisions MadeAction ItemOwnerDue DateParking Lot
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Project Retrospective Template

Close projects with evidence, learning, and recognition so each project improves the next.
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Retro Template
Run this after delivery: Separate facts from feelings. Celebrate what worked, capture what failed, and name the process changes that will make the next project smoother.
What Went Well
What Didn't Go Well
What to Try Next Time
Process Improvements

Team Recognition

NameContribution to Recognize

Key Metrics

On Time?On Budget?Goal Achieved?Stakeholder Satisfaction
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