What is the purpose of a schedule in project documentation?

The purpose of a schedule in project documentation is primarily to communicate timelines. A project schedule provides a detailed timeline of when specific tasks and milestones are expected to be completed. This allows all stakeholders, including project managers, team members, and clients, to understand the sequence of activities, deadlines, and overall progress of the project.

By establishing a clear timeline, a schedule helps coordinate efforts, manage resources effectively, and ensure that the project remains on track. It serves as a critical tool for tracking progress and making any necessary adjustments to keep the project aligned with its deadlines. It is essential for measuring performance against planned timelines and for anticipating potential delays, which in turn supports project success.

The other options, while relevant in a broader scope of project documentation, do not capture the primary purpose of a schedule. Listing materials pertains to a bill of materials, outlining project goals relates more to the project's scope statement, and defining project roles focuses on responsibilities rather than timelines.