Action plans: Definitions, examples, and how to manage them

What is the action plan?

Action Plans, also known as tasks or to-dos, are individual actions that need to be taken to accomplish a specific goal. They often stem from a larger project plan or discussion in a meeting where responsibilities and deadlines are assigned. Action Plans are typically recorded as an Action Plan list or form, which serves as a central repository for all outstanding tasks.

List of Forms What is an Action Plan?

The Action Plan form list is a structured document that captures essential information about each Action Plan. It includes details such as task description, responsible party, due date, priority, and status. This form helps ensure that all necessary information is captured and communicated effectively, minimizing confusion and facilitating accountability.

To help you understand better, here is an example of an Action Plan form list:

This board provides a snapshot of Action Plans, showing who is responsible for each task, when it is due, priority, and current status.

Action Plan Example

Action Plans can vary greatly depending on the nature of the project. Here are some examples of popular Action Plans in different industries:

1. Software development project:
   • Develop user registration module
   • Fix errors in payment processing system
   • Conduct load testing on server infrastructure
2. Marketing campaign:
   • Create a social media content calendar
   • Design advertising materials
   • Implement an email marketing campaign
3. Building projects:
   • Get a building permit
   • Hire subcontractors to construct electrical and water systems
   • Schedule inspections at key project milestones

As you can see, Action Plans can include a variety of tasks, from technical development work to administrative tasks.