One of the basic, yet most important, aspects of project documentation includes effective use of an ongoing and detailed set of daily reports.

Too often, daily reports are submitted to the contractor’s office merely noting the date, the weather, a broad description of the work being performed and, sometimes, a listing of employees and equipment present.

This type of report will usually prove insufficient to support a request for additional compensation or a change-order claim. Even on a perfect day, when no problems arise and production is favorable, effective project management principles require more detailed reporting.