How do you create a comms budget and timeline?

1 Define your scope and purpose

The first step is to define the scope and purpose of your comms project. What are you trying to achieve, and for whom? What are the key messages, channels, and audiences you want to reach? How will you measure your impact and success? These questions will help you clarify your comms strategy and objectives, and set the boundaries and expectations for your budget and timeline. You can use a simple template or a tool like SMART goals to document your scope and purpose.

2 Estimate your costs and resources

The next step is to estimate the costs and resources you will need to execute your comms project. This includes both fixed and variable costs, such as staff time, materials, equipment, software, travel, events, advertising, and outsourcing. You can use a spreadsheet or a tool like Trello to list and categorize your costs and resources, and assign them to specific tasks and activities. You should also include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses or changes in your plan.

3 Create your timeline and milestones

The third step is to create your timeline and milestones for your comms project. This involves breaking down your project into manageable phases, tasks, and deliverables, and assigning them to specific dates and deadlines. You can use a calendar or a tool like Gantt chart to visualize your timeline and milestones, and track your progress and dependencies. You should also align your timeline and milestones with your scope and purpose, and communicate them clearly to your team and stakeholders.

4 Review and adjust your budget and timeline

The final step is to review and adjust your budget and timeline as you implement your comms project. This means monitoring your actual costs and resources against your estimates, and identifying any gaps, risks, or opportunities. You can use a dashboard or a tool like Google Analytics to measure your performance and impact, and compare them with your goals and objectives. You should also update your budget and timeline regularly, and report on your achievements and challenges.

5 Tips and tools for creating a comms budget and timeline

Creating a comms budget and timeline can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it is also incredibly rewarding. To simplify the process, use online templates and tools such as Asana, Airtable, or HubSpot. Involve your team and stakeholders in the budgeting and planning process for their valuable insights, feedback, and support. Be realistic and flexible with your budget and timeline in case of unexpected challenges or opportunities. Don't forget to review your achievements and lessons learned at the end of the project. Reward your team and stakeholders for their contributions, share your results with your audience, and celebrate your success!

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?