Home Growth Path Understanding Action Item Types and Progress Tracking In IDPs

Understanding Action Item Types and Progress Tracking In IDPs

Last updated on Mar 25, 2026

These are the available action item types that you can select while creating action items in a development area. Each action item type represents a different format of learning or progress tracking, allowing you to define how the development activity will be completed and measured

Choosing the appropriate action item type helps in clearly structuring development plans, tracking progress effectively, and aligning activities with specific learning or performance goals

Note: In some cases, based on the selected action item type, you will need to choose a progress type to track the action item. Available progress types include modules, hours, days, weeks, and months. Based on the selected progress type, you can define a target (e.g., 10 modules, 40 hours, 45 days, etc.) and update progress through regular check-ins.

In the examples below, we have used one of the available progress types for each action item to illustrate how progress tracking works in a practical scenario.

Reaching the defined target does not automatically mark the action item as completed. Once the target is achieved, you can manually update the status based on your preference (e.g., Completed, Achieved, or any other relevant status).

Task

A basic action item type representing a single unit of work that is either completed or not completed. Tasks do not require a target value and are tracked using a binary status (1/0).

Example: Submit a weekly performance report by compiling all required data. Once completed, check in the task and update the status.

Course

A structured learning program (online or offline) designed to build specific skills over a period of time.

Example: Complete an Excel course on Coursera by finishing all modules. Track progress based on modules completed (e.g., 5/10 modules).

Certification

An official credential earned after successfully passing an exam or assessment. Progress can be tracked based on preparation efforts such as hours spent studying or completing practice tests.

Example: Prepare for AWS Certification by completing study materials and mock tests. Track progress based on hours spent (e.g., 20/40 hours).

Project Work

Working on a specific project to gain practical, hands-on experience and apply learned skills in a real-world scenario.

Example: Build a data dashboard using real business data. Track progress based on weeks (e.g., 2/6 weeks completed).

Mentorship

Learning through guidance, feedback, and regular interactions with a mentor.

Example: Attend regular mentoring sessions with your manager. Track progress based on duration (e.g., 1/3 months completed).

Time-bound Program

A structured program with a predefined duration aimed at achieving specific development goals within a set timeframe.

Example: Complete an 8-week leadership program. Track progress based on weeks completed (e.g., 4/8 weeks).

Training

Formal training sessions, either internal or external, such as workshops, seminars, or instructor-led sessions.

Example: Attend a communication skills training program. Track progress based on days (e.g., 2/5 days completed)