What is a benefit of using engineering notebooks?

Using engineering notebooks serves an important role in documenting the progress of a project. They function as a detailed record of ideas, designs, changes, and problems encountered throughout the project lifecycle. This ongoing documentation helps teams keep track of their thought processes, reflects on past decisions, and provides a historical account that can be revisited later for insights or learning opportunities.

Such a record is invaluable not just for the current project but also for future endeavors, allowing teams to assess what worked well and what didn't. By preserving a comprehensive account of the entire project, engineering notebooks facilitate better understanding and communication among team members and can also assist in debugging and refining the design process based on past experiences. This practice fosters a culture of continuous improvement and can enhance both individual and collaborative learning.