What is the difference between a master programme and a lookahead?
Last reviewed July 5, 2026
A master programme outlines the entire project timeline, showing all phases and key milestones. A lookahead focuses on the upcoming work, usually covering two to four weeks, detailing what needs to be done immediately and ensuring resources are in place.
Key points
- Master programme covers the entire project timeline.
- Lookahead focuses on immediate tasks and upcoming weeks.
- Lookahead helps manage resources and scheduling.
- Master programme includes key milestones.
The master programme gives you the big picture of the project from start to finish. It helps everyone understand the timeline and where the project is heading. On the other hand, the lookahead is more tactical, zeroing in on what needs to happen in the next few weeks. It's about planning the details to keep the project on track.
How Alloovium helps
Alloovium can pull and structure data from your project docs, making it easier to create and manage both master programmes and lookaheads.
See how it worksRelated questions
- How do I build a 3-week lookahead in construction?
- How do I build a 6-week lookahead programme?
- How do I forecast a construction project's completion date?
- How do I identify schedule risk on a construction project?
- How do I justify an extension of time using the programme?
- How do I link RFIs and variations to programme delays?
General information for Australian construction professionals — not legal advice. Verify jurisdiction-specific requirements with the relevant regulator.