4 Must Know Tips for Starting any New Project

Why is starting a new project so complicated when it hasn’t even started!

Beginning a new project is not an easy task and can often be tricky. If you want to succeed in your project, you need a plan to ensure your work is done well and to schedule.

As a designer, I managed many clients ranging from small businesses to large institutions over the years. I had to learn how to manage my time, or I would have several meltdowns by now! Let me share a few simple tips that I use; hopefully, I can keep your stress under control.

The simple answer is project planning.

Putting a plan to your project is critical because it sets up a target for your goals with little steps to guide you along the way. If not planned in advance, whatever the project you are working on will result in a blown budget, missing deadlines, and scopeless work. That sounds bad!

1) Defining the scope of work (SOW)

When you define what you want to accomplish, you and your team will become more comfortable to schedule and deliver the project on time.

It is essential to know the 5Ws from the start. I recommend writing these down and having you and the client agree on it. 

– WHO (i.e. who are the key players?)

– WHAT(i.e. what are the project objectives, budgets?)

– WHEN (i.e. when do you want it completed?)

– WHERE (i.e. where do I deliver it?)

– WHY (i.e. why are you doing this?)

2) Building your team and gather your tools together

Having the right people and tools in your back pocket is a huge step for success. I believe that the right resources can bring success to any project. 

After evaluating the scope of work, look at your available resources and get them together. These can be people and/or tools. Like my dad always says, having the right tools for the right job is essential! 

Assign these resources to all your tasks and goals. i.e. get John to do the writing, Sally to install that web application to edit those pictures, get Jane to start planning the launch, you can begin the creative designs, etc.. you get the point 🙂

3) Setting the “big things” as goals

You need to identify the “BIG things” in the project and turn them into attainable goals, then use small, actionable tasks to reach them.

Practice the “SMART” (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely) project management technique. It allows you to set specific, measurable, attainable and realistic goals that can be achieved on time. 

Your tasks and goals should be short and straightforward yet meet all your and the client’s expectations.

I always tell people to start small with your number of big goals. Keep it to 3 or 4 in your project; this way, you can remember it, and you are more likely to achieve it. 

4) Assessing your plan daily and adjust 

Every day, referring to your plan will help you see what needs attention and what is on track. Don’t be afraid to bring in additional help (resources) if you need it. Finishing the project on time creates a happy client, which may become a returning client.

Good luck with that next project of yours! Tell me how it went.

Lisa