Schedules are only useful if they are updated in a timely manner.

Most project schedules must be statused and updated monthly. Some complex construction projects or jobs that have a very dynamic schedule should be statused more frequently. The earned value management plan must establish clear and concise guidelines for updating the schedule and establishing progress. Progress must be assessed by the supervisors directly overseeing the work. The update process should begin early enough to ensure that the reports are based on the latest status.

The project planning team must ensure that the personnel responsible for updating the project schedule understand any applicable contract requirements regarding how progress is to be assessed.  Here are some rules with respect to updating progress in your programme:

1. Set all Actual Start or Actual Finish dates for works started or completed
2. Set all Percentage Completion for activies in progress
3. Set a robust Remaining Duration for all activities in progress (to get an accurate forecast completion)
4. Set the Status Date / TimeNow date
5. Recalculate the programme
6. Review results
7. Amend any items (above) to ensure an accurate and reasonable result
8. Make sure you are Communicating the Plan