Gesprächsprotokoll

Gesprächsprotokoll is a German term that translates to "meeting minutes" or "conversation record." It is a written document that summarizes the key points, decisions, and action items discussed during a meeting, interview, or any other form of conversation. The primary purpose of a Gesprächsprotokoll is to provide an objective and accurate account of what transpired, serving as a reference for participants and those who were unable to attend.

There are generally two main types of Gesprächsprotokoll: a detailed protocol (wortprotokoll) and a summary protocol (verlaufsprotokoll). A wortprotokoll aims to record every word spoken, often transcribed verbatim, which is useful for legal or highly technical discussions. A verlaufsprotokoll, on the other hand, focuses on the essential content, decisions, and conclusions, omitting verbatim speech unless a specific statement is crucial.

The structure of a Gesprächsprotokoll typically includes essential information such as the date, time, location, participants, and the agenda of the discussion. It then proceeds to outline the topics discussed, followed by a clear listing of any decisions made and tasks assigned, including who is responsible for each task and the agreed-upon deadline. The protocol is usually written by a designated minute-taker and often reviewed and approved by the participants to ensure accuracy. This ensures that all parties are in agreement with the recorded outcome of the discussion.