arbeidsplan

An arbeidsplan is a document that outlines the planned work for a defined period, detailing tasks, responsible persons, and deadlines. It is used in workplaces, schools, and public services to coordinate activity, allocate resources, and provide a basis for follow-up. While the term is Norwegian, the concept appears worldwide as a work plan or task schedule.

Purpose and use:

An arbeidsplan clarifies expectations, supports scheduling, helps balance workload, and facilitates communication among team members. It also serves as a tool for onboarding, performance monitoring, budgeting, and compliance with internal policies or collective agreements.

Common components:

- Objectives or goals

- Tasks or activities

- Roles and responsibilities

- Time estimates and deadlines

- Milestones and dependencies

- Resources (people, equipment, budget)

- Performance indicators or success criteria

- Review dates and provisions for adjustments

Process and governance:

Drafted by a supervisor or project leader with input from participants, then approved by the appropriate authority. Implemented with regular progress tracking, and reviewed and updated at set intervals (e.g., weekly or monthly) to reflect changes in scope or resources.

Contexts and variants:

In employment settings, an arbeidsplan often takes the form of a weekly or monthly work schedule or shift plan. In project management, it resembles a task-oriented plan linked to timelines. In education or social services, an individual arbeidsplan (IAP) tailors tasks to a person’s needs and goals.

Relation to law and practice:

Many organizations align their arbeidsplan with national labor laws, safety regulations, and collective agreements. Formats and software vary, but the underlying principle is to create a clear, workable roadmap for a defined period.