Clearing the backlog: regaining control

Author: Dmitry Chernenkov, coach

This template helps when your task management system breaks down and needs a quick restart. Getting back to your system is usually hindered by:

• decreased trust in the system: not everything is captured;
• emotions arising from the breakdown and system being out of date;
• it’s like the uncomfortable feeling of being in a messy kitchen.

The project includes:

• a set of methods for discovering uncaptured tasks;
• a step-by-step plan with checklists for executing the restart;
• recommendations for configuring work with the project;
• a mental model template for deep analysis of backlog causes.

This template helps you regain control over your system, organize and plan work on problems, and reduce the likelihood of similar backlogs in the future.