Free Change Log Templates: Excel, Microsoft Word, and Google Sheets

A change log is a tool that records, manages, and tracks project changes. We’ve gathered the top templates in Excel, Microsoft Word, and Google Sheets formats to streamline documentation, ensure transparency, and facilitate tracking for projects.

Change Log Template

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Download a Sample Change Log Template for
Excel | Google Sheets

Download a Blank Change Log Template for

Use this change log template with or without sample data to track project changes, timelines, and actions. Assign each change request a number and determine the change type. Then enter a change description, the date it was identified, the status, and priority. Fill in the additional columns to provide a thorough overview of each change. Share with team members so that they have a clear understanding of how each change impacts the project.

Project Management Change Log Template

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Download the Sample Project Management Change Log Template for
Microsoft Word

Download the Blank Project Management Change Log Template for
Microsoft Word

Enter any project change into this project management change log template to prevent a project from veering off course. The Microsoft Word format allows easy integration with additional supporting documents, contributing to the project’s comprehensiveness. This template is also a great collaboration tool because you can track changes and manage updates in one convenient location.

Document Change Log Template

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Download a Sample Document Change Log Template for

Download a Blank Document Change Log Template for

Record changes for any project document — including policies, procedures, contracts, marketing materials, and more — with this basic document change log template, with or without sample data. Enter each change description, who requested it, the date it was raised, the decision, and the decision date. Use the comments section to include information about the reason, impact, or application of each change.

Software Change Control Log

Download a Software Change Control Log for

If you are a software developer who needs to record software updates, modifications, or bug fixes, this software change log is the perfect tool. Use the customizable fields to enter SCR numbers, who the changes are assigned to, the change due dates, and comments. This template keeps the change-related information in a single location, making it easy to share with the development team and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Types of Change Log Templates

Depending on the project's focus, you can use different types of change log templates. You can find specific change logs for documentation, requesting a change, project management, and software.

The following list explains the different types of change log templates and what they typically include:

• Document Change Log Template
  A document change log template is used for policies, procedures, contracts, marketing materials, training materials, and more. It helps maintain a version history of the project document, serving as an essential component of quality control.
  Elements: Date, Change Description, Decision, Date Revised
• Change Request Log Template
  A change request log template lists the formal proposals to alter an aspect of the project. These requests generally come from stakeholders, team members, or clients.
  Elements: Type, Date, Requester, Description, Decision, Comments
• Project Management Change Log Template
  A project management change log template tracks all change requests during the project’s lifecycle.
  Elements: Date, Owner, Impact Summary, Escalation Required, Change Type, Status, Priority
• Software Change Log Template
  A software change log template records software updates, modifications, or bug fixes.
  Elements: SCR Number, Assigned To, Due Date, Status

How to Use a Change Log Template

Use a change log template whenever a stakeholder, team member, or client requests a change to the project. Even if a change is rejected, it is important to note that it was considered to promote transparency in the project’s process.

Follow the steps below to learn how to use a change log template:

1. Select a Template: Download a change log template .
2. Assign a Change Number: A change number, or change ID, is a unique number assigned to each change.
3. Enter the Date Identified: This is the date the change was raised.
4. Enter the Change Type: The change type is the specific domain undergoing a change, such as a product, system, or team.
5. Enter a Change Description: A change description explains the change.
6. Status: Each status indicates the change’s current stage, such as open, pending, approved, or rejected.
7. Assigned To/Owner: This is the individual responsible for resolving the change.
8. Priority: Priority is the level of importance: high, medium, or low.
9. Action: The action indicates the steps required to resolve the change.
10. Impact: The impact is the area of the project affected by the change, such as scope, budget, or resources.
11. Escalation: Escalation indicates whether or not to expedite the change ahead of the scheduled timeline.
12. Completion Date: The completion date is the date the change is resolved.
13. Comments: Comments include additional information that contributes to explaining the change, the steps taken, or reasons for the final decision.

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