You're dealing with unexpected changes in your animation project. How do you decide what tasks to prioritize?

Animation projects are complex, especially when managing changes. Before implementing any changes, it’s crucial to confirm the timeline and have a clear understanding of the modifications required. Without a detailed plan, any actions taken can make project completion challenging. Based on my personal experience, I follow a few simple rules. Begin by securing approval before diving into the main phases. This includes getting client approval at each stage—starting from the script, storyboarding, style frames, illustration work, and throughout the animation process. Clear communication and regular updates with the client help minimize unexpected changes or significant revisions.

The key to a successful project is to plan within an inch of its life if you can. This way, you can minimise the risk of unexpected changes. We set strict approval stages starting with a drawn storyboard so that we have concept sign off before moving to any 3D work at all. Once you have achieved this you should be able to move swiftly even if some shots end up on the cutting room floor. With any service based business the biggest cost is unplanned time. As long as you can budget the time required then you will stay in the black. If unexpected elements run away from you your profit can swiftly disappear.

When facing unexpected changes in an animation project, prioritize tasks by assessing their impact on the overall project timeline and quality. Identify the most critical elements that need immediate attention and align with the client's new requirements. Communicate with your team to ensure everyone understands the revised priorities and deadlines. Focus on tasks that will maintain project momentum and address any potential bottlenecks, while also considering the available resources and team capacity. This strategic approach ensures that key objectives are met without compromising the project's integrity.

Smart work often garners more attention than hard work. Without proper prioritization, projects can face challenges before completion. Prioritization is crucial. Making concise and effective decisions about scenes or styles can save you time. Understanding your audience and goals is paramount. Thoroughly research before starting. Obtain client approval for everything you visualize. Prioritize tasks effectively. Organize your layers and name them appropriately. This makes it easier to handle unexpected feedback. Emphasize every aspect of the process for optimal results.

Flexibility is essential for any animator. It enables you to learn from and adapt to various feedback. In my experience, clients prefer working with someone who values their feedback and is open to finding effective solutions. Being flexible and understanding different aspects of the process is crucial for success. For example, if you're working on a project using your preferred software but the client requests a different one, you should accommodate their request. Meeting client requirements should always take precedence over personal comfort.