Terugrapportage

Terugrapportage is a document that reports on the results, learnings, and impact of a completed task, project, or research activity. It serves to inform stakeholders, accountability bodies, and funders about what was done, what was achieved, and what remains or went differently than planned. The term is widely used in Dutch contexts such as project management, research funding, public administration, and professional practice. Etymologically, terugrapportage combines terug (back) with rapportage (report), emphasizing the act of reporting back to a party with an interest in the results.

Typical content includes a concise summary of objectives, a description of activities performed, outcomes and indicators, financial accounting, deviations from the plan, risk and mitigation, lessons learned, and recommendations. It may also include an evaluation of impact, quality, and sustainability, as well as appendices with data, methodologies, and stakeholder feedback. The report aims to be clear, verifiable, and focused on accountability and learning rather than merely a description.

Applications vary by sector. In public funding and subsidies, the terugrapportage documents compliance and accountability to the grantor. In corporate or NGO settings, it may serve for project closure, knowledge-sharing, or performance reporting. In education or research, it can function as a debriefing or final report to supervisors, boards, or sponsors.

Best practices include defining audience and scope at the outset, using objective indicators, presenting data transparently, and including actionable recommendations. A well-structured terugrapportage supports decision-making, validates expenditures, and contributes to organizational learning.