What Is a Register?
A register is a written record of regular entries for changing aspects of a project. It is a living document used to capture, track and update items such as risks, issues, assumptions or stakeholders.
In Practice
Common examples include the risk register, issue register, assumptions log and stakeholder register. Each entry typically has an owner, a status and a history of updates. A well-maintained register makes work visible, supports decisions and provides an audit trail. The value lies in keeping it current — a neglected register quickly loses its usefulness.
PMBOK 8 Context
Registers are common project artifacts referenced throughout the PMBOK Guide, 8th Edition, supporting the Measurement, Uncertainty and Stakeholder performance domains. See also artifact.
FAQ
Register vs. log? The terms are often used interchangeably; a “log” sometimes emphasizes chronological entries, a “register” a maintained list of tracked items.
What makes a register effective? Clear ownership, current status, and regular review.
Author: Tom, PMP-certified since 2004. Last updated: July 2026. Aligned with the PMBOK Guide, 8th Edition.