Module code: 41
Lexis
Updates on the Project: Managing Deadlines and Progress
1. Falling Behind Schedule
When projects experience delays, we often say they have fallen behind schedule. This means the work is taking longer than planned. Teams then need to catch up with the original timeline. ✓ Use present perfect to describe the current situation and past simple to explain what happened.
Key Terms
fall behind scheduleto be delayed, not meeting planned timings
catch up withto reach the same level or point as something that was ahead
2. Getting Back On Track
When teams resolve delays, the project gets back on track. This means progress returns to the planned schedule. ✓ Use present perfect to describe completed recovery actions and their current impact.
Key Terms
get back on trackto return to the original plan or schedule
be back on trackto have returned to the planned schedule
3. Meeting The Deadline
The final goal is to meet the deadline – completing work by the agreed date. Teams discuss what they’re going to do to ensure timely completion. ✓ Use ‘going to’ for planned actions aimed at meeting deadlines.
Key Terms
meet the deadlineto complete something by the required time
milestonean important point or stage in a project
💬 Typical Conversations
Section 1: Falling Behind Schedule
Project manager Jenny checks on recent delays with team lead Jack
Jenny: “Jack, why have we fallen behind schedule on the Wilson project?”
Jack: “We had some technical issues last week, but we're working to catch up.”
Jenny: “What specific problems have you encountered?”
Jack: “The database migration has taken longer than expected, and we've discovered some compatibility issues.”
Jenny: “I see. Have you identified all the problem areas now?”
Jack: “Yes, we've mapped out all the issues. The team is working extra hours to catch up with the original timeline.”
Jenny: “Good. Keep me updated on your progress.”
Section 2: Getting Back On Track
Team discussing recovery progress after delays
Jenny: “Have you gotten back on track with the development phase?”
Jack: “Yes, we've completed the main components and we're now back on track.”
Jenny: “What steps have you taken to ensure we stay on schedule?”
Jack: “We've implemented daily progress checks and added two developers to the team.”
Jenny: “How long will it take to complete the remaining tasks?”
Jack: “Now that we're back on track, we should finish everything within two weeks.”
Jenny: “Excellent. Let's keep this momentum going.”
Section 3: Meeting The Deadline
Planning remaining tasks and confirming delivery date
Jenny: “Are we going to meet the deadline for the final delivery?”
Jack: “Yes, we're going to complete everything by next Friday.”
Jenny: “What about the major milestone reviews?”
Jack: “We're going to have the first milestone review tomorrow, and the second one is scheduled for Tuesday.”
Jenny: “And the client presentation?”
Jack: “We're going to deliver the presentation next Thursday, a day before the final deadline.”
Jenny: “Perfect. Make sure everything is thoroughly tested before then.”
📝 Key Vocabulary Recap
fall behind schedule→to be delayed compared to the original plan
catch up with→to reach the same point as something that was ahead
get back on track→to return to the original schedule
be back on track→to have returned to the planned schedule
meet the deadline→to complete work by the required date
milestone→a significant point or achievement in a project