What does contemporaneous documentation refer to?

Contemporaneous documentation refers to records that are created at the time of the event. This type of documentation is essential in project management and scheduling as it provides an accurate and reliable account of activities, decisions, and occurrences as they unfold. Such records are significant in ensuring that there is a clear trail that can be used for reference in the future, particularly in cases of disputes or when evaluating project performance.

Having documents created at the time of the event helps capture the context and details accurately, which may be lost or misinterpreted if recorded later. This immediacy adds to the reliability of the information, making it a critical component of effective planning and scheduling practices. For example, contemporaneous notes can include meeting minutes, daily logs, and change order records that are vital during the project lifecycle and for post-project evaluations.