Award winning fine artist, graphic designer and author, Caren Hackman, shares Four Tips for Completing Projects on Schedule.  The Rickie Report shares these with our readers, knowing that this advice pertains to everyone, not only artists!

Caren  Hackman:

My 4 tips for completing projects on schedule

I like to complete client projects on time or in advance of the deadline. I avoid working on last-minute projects, but, if it is within my power to help out a client I will work on a project with a short timeline. However, I do try to avoid the frantic round-the-clock-all-nighter project mode of work. I don’t think any of us do our best work when we are emotional or sleep deprived. Following are some steps I take to help me complete projects on schedule. Although I’ve described the tasks as being part of a graphic design marketing or visual communications project, the steps can apply to nearly any project.

ONE: Review the entire scope of the project with the client.

TWO: Develop a timeline by breaking the project into phases and setting a deadline for each.

A. In addition to setting a deadline when all work must be complete by me, I set reasonable deadlines for the client to review each phase of the work I turn into them. I include their review time and turnarounds for project modifications in the timeline.

B. If certain tasks are dependent upon the work of others, I take into account this possible extra time.

C. I determine two phases during the project development where I compare project components’ compatibility with the final output requirements. This might involve phone calls to outside vendors such as a printer; a production company for trade show or; an online source where I might want to check placement, browser compatibility and loading time. Checking for compatibility, running a test or trial or submitting a rough concept to those involved in the projects’ production will eliminate last minute unpleasant revelations.

THREE:  Allow ample time for proofreading. Ask someone who has not yet reviewed the project to look at it for substance and clarity. Individuals with an insiders’ familiarity with the project might consider a piece of information common knowledge and thus, overlook explanations that others will require. Occasionally, during multiple revisions of a project, tiny errors can occur such as an incorrect URL or missing phone number. Having an outsider, or member of the target market group review the communications piece will make the end product more effective.

FOUR:  Be vigilant about adhering to the timeline. Check often to be certain that all involved are keeping up with the planned goals and their individual timelines for each phase. Reevaluate and troubleshoot, when needed.

Do you have tips for completing projects on schedule without entering the panic mode near the finish line? If so, please comment.  

For more information about Caren Hackman:

Caren Hackman is a graphic designer and fine artist living in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. and author of a book about Graphic Design and Good Business practice: http://www.carenhackman.com/book/.

Be sure to check out Caren’s wonderful artwork – Caren is a talented artist in her own right! She is a founding member of the Artists of Palm Beach County.

www.carenhackman.com

 yogapainter.com

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