The short answer

Organize the checklist by owner, dependency, deadline and proof of completion. Separate decisions, tasks, approvals and readiness tests.

Step by step

Work through the decision

  1. 01Create workstreams
  2. 02Identify external dependencies
  3. 03Assign one accountable owner
  4. 04Define completion evidence
  5. 05Run weekly readiness reviews and daily reviews near opening

Common mistakes

  • A flat list with hundreds of tasks
  • Multiple owners
  • No distinction between due and blocked
  • Checking off setup that has not been tested

Working checklist