How can you keep a commercial design project on track when issues arise?

1 Define the scope

One of the first steps to keep a commercial design project on track is to define the scope clearly and realistically. The scope is the agreement between the designer and the client on what the project will deliver, how it will be done, and what resources and constraints are involved. A well-defined scope helps to avoid misunderstandings, scope creep, and unrealistic expectations that can lead to delays, disputes, and dissatisfaction. To define the scope, you need to gather and document the project requirements, goals, deliverables, milestones, budget, and timeline, and get the approval and sign-off from the client and other stakeholders.

3 Manage changes

Even with a clear scope and effective communication, changes are inevitable in any commercial design project. Changes can be caused by internal or external factors, such as new requirements, design revisions, material shortages, or regulatory changes. Changes can have a significant impact on the project's timeline, budget, and quality, so they need to be managed carefully and proactively. To manage changes, you need to have a change control process that defines how to identify, evaluate, approve, document, and implement changes. You also need to communicate the changes to all the parties involved and update the project plan accordingly.

4 Monitor progress

To keep a commercial design project on track, you also need to monitor the progress of the work and compare it with the project plan. Monitoring progress helps to identify and address any deviations, risks, or issues that may affect the project's performance and outcome. It also helps to measure and report the project's status and achievements to the client and other stakeholders. To monitor progress, you need to use appropriate tools and methods, such as schedules, charts, dashboards, or software, to track and visualize the project's activities, resources, costs, and quality. You also need to conduct regular reviews and meetings to discuss the progress and take corrective actions if needed.

5 Adapt to challenges

Finally, to keep a commercial design project on track, you need to be able to adapt to challenges that may arise during the project. Challenges can be unexpected events, problems, or opportunities that require a creative and flexible response from the designer and the project team. Challenges can be opportunities to learn, improve, and innovate, but they can also be threats to the project's success and satisfaction. To adapt to challenges, you need to have a positive and resilient attitude, a problem-solving mindset, and a willingness to collaborate and compromise. You also need to be open to feedback, suggestions, and alternatives that can help you overcome the challenges and achieve the project's goals.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?