Prepare a task schedule, showing in as much detail as possible at this point, your plan for completing the project. Remember that it is extremely important to be as detailed about these tasks as possible. Teams should indicate who will do what and assure equitable distribution of tasks, including both writing and research tasks.
It is best to identify project-specific, high-level tasks to organize your analysis. If you aren't able to do that yet, you can use a blank generic task schedule to get you started. Be sure to include all of your reporting deadlines along the way, starting with the draft progress report.
Sample Project Schedule (from chapter 5)
System Upgrade Task Schedule
Research Email Software:
Sep 9–Oct 16 Review capabilities of MS Exchange Server Dena
Sep 9–Oct 16 Investigate other available software packages Dena
Oct 16–17 Summarize benefits for team discussion Dena
Research Available Wide Area Network Options:
Sep 9–Oct 16 Obtain quotes on data acquisition techniques Duane
Sep 9–Oct 16 Research technology Duane
Oct 16–Oct 17 Summarize findings for team discussion Duane
Write Proposal:
Sep 12–18 Write draft Dena
Sep 22 Meet to edit Both
Sep 26 Submit draft Dena
Write Progress Report:
Oct 17 Meet to discuss progress Both
Oct 17–20 Write draft Duane
Oct 26 Meet to edit Both
Oct 31 Submit draft Duane
Analyze and Design Proposed Solution:
Oct 23–Nov 2 Decide on WAN services to be used Duane
Oct 23–Nov 2 Analyze merits of central post office Duane
Oct 23–Nov 2 Create schematic of proposed set-up Duane
Obtain Quotes on Necessary Materials for Implementation:
Oct 23–Nov 2 Produce list of required services and materials Dena
Oct 23–Nov 2 Obtain quotes on services and materials Dena
Oct 23–Nov 2 Prepare cost comparison chart Dena
Prepare Final Document/Speech:
Nov 3–9 Write individual sections Both
Nov 10–12 Type comprehensive report Dena
Nov 13 Submit draft Dena
Nov 16 Meet to revise and edit Both
Nov 17 Meet to plan and practice for speech Both