Recording a Chronological Activity Timeline

An activity timeline records timestamped observations inside a single update. Use it for surveillance logs, detailed field notes, and other work where the sequence matters.

Add timeline entries

  1. Add or edit a case update.
  2. Enable Include activity timeline.
  3. Select Add Timeline Entry.
  4. Enter the actual observation Time and a factual Description.
  5. Repeat for each observation, review the entries, and save the update.

Example

  • 06:00: Arrived at the observation location.
  • 08:15: Observed the vehicle depart.
  • 08:42: Observed the vehicle arrive at the destination.

How chronological order works

The saved timeline displays entries sorted by time of day. Each row has a time and description, not a separate date. State the observation date and relevant timezone in the narrative. For work spanning midnight or several dates, use separate dated updates so time-of-day sorting does not confuse the sequence.

Correct or remove an entry

Edit the update to change an entry’s time or description. Use the row’s trash control to remove an incorrect entry, then save. To remove an existing timeline completely, remove its rows in the timeline editor and save; merely hiding the timeline editor does not remove an existing saved timeline.

Reports and billing

Timeline notes can appear in formatted reports. They are documentation, not billable time entries. Record time and expenses separately.