When Bad Timelines Happen to Good Projects

Getting Things Done for Clients

Sometimes a project just needs to get done, and there’s no time to spare. While all graphic designers want (and need) reasonable advanced notice to plan and fit projects into our queues, life happens – and occasionally, things escalate despite our clients' best intentions. "We need a 60-page program for our event in three weeks and the content was just submitted. Can you help?"

While we won’t say we’re miracle workers, we do have “make-it-work” moments when our clients are in dire straits. If you find you’re short on time with an important project looming, reach out. We can probably help.

For example, we knew that the a conference program was coming our way, but unforeseen complications delayed us getting materials until one week before it needed to be released to the printer for production. Fortunately, we were able to carve out the time and dig in. The client responded quickly to our proofs, and even our fabulous proofreader, turned it around in record time. We made our deadline with a few hours to spare.

Part of the success of the piece I'm referencing is our ongoing relationship with this client. Having worked on their conference program in the past, I know what they like and how the materials will arrive. I know they love creativity and how I will need to work the "design" around the amount of content that needs to be included. That's one of the benefits of having us partner for long-term engagements. We can function more as a team member and less like a vendor for hire.

Next time you need some creative, give us a shout. We'd love to get to know you, your organization and your preferences – and turn around your projects with time to spare!

Susan Harper is owner and art director at Sharper Creative, a boutique marketing and design firm. Susan also offers a specialized service, Conference Creative, where she works with trade associations to develop graphic strategies and collateral for conferences, meetings and events. She also works with clients ranging from manufacturers and B2B service-based organizations to technology companies and nonprofits.