aikakaavan

Aikakaavan is a Finnish term that is commonly translated as “timeline plan” or “chronological plan.” It refers to a plan or diagram that outlines the intended sequence and timing of events, tasks, or processes over time. The word is formed from aika, meaning time, and kaava, meaning plan or diagram.

The purpose of an aikakaavan is to visualize when actions are to occur, how long they will take, and how they depend on one another. It helps with scheduling, coordination, and communication among stakeholders. An aikakaavan can be qualitative, indicating phases and milestones, or quantitative, including specific dates, durations, and resource needs. It is used across fields such as project management, product development roadmaps, construction, event planning, urban or regional planning, and in historical or research timelines.

Typical elements of an aikakaavan include a time axis, individual activities or phases, planned durations, key milestones, dependencies or predecessor-successor relationships, and often the parties responsible or required resources. The chart or diagram can be displayed as a simple timeline, a more detailed schematic, or a narrative sequence.

Relation to other planning concepts varies by context. It complements more detailed calendars or schedules (aikataulu) and broader strategic roadmaps (tiekartta), providing a time-focused overview that supports prioritization and risk assessment. Aikakaavat require regular updates to reflect changes in scope, timing, or resources, and are most effective when aligned with other planning tools.