Capturing what was agreed.
WHY IT MATTERS
Recollection diverges within hours, and whoever writes first frames the record.
WHEN TO SEND
Immediately, while it is accurate.
WHAT TO INCLUDE
What was decided What each person will do, by when What remains open When you will next speak
WHAT NOT TO INCLUDE
A transcript of discussion Points that were dropped
WHY
Nobody reads it, and it invites reopening.
HOW LONG
Short enough to read at a glance.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT ANYTHING AMBIGUOUS
State your understanding, and invite correction.
WHAT THAT SOUNDS LIKE
My understanding is that we proceed on the reduced scope; please correct me if not.
WHY IT WORKS
It converts an assumption into an agreed position or surfaces the disagreement now.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT COMMERCIAL MEETINGS
Always confirm price, scope and dates.
WHY
They are what disputes concern.
WHO TO SEND IT TO
Everyone who attended, and anyone affected.
WHAT TO ASK FOR
Corrections within a period.
WHAT TO DO IF NOBODY OBJECTS
Treat it as agreed.
WHAT TO KEEP
The record, with the date sent.
WHAT HABIT TO BUILD
Writing it before doing anything else.
WHY
It takes five minutes and prevents most disputes.
