Defining the Stages of Work:

A Guideline for a Seamless Consulting Experience

In our dynamic and creative agency, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality designs, compelling text content, impactful ads, memorable slogans, and strategic proposals. However, we understand that our clients may not always be familiar with the intricacies of each stage in the process. To ensure a transparent and fruitful collaboration, we have outlined the key stages of our work, each requiring a distinct approach, time investment, scope, research, and effort. This guideline will not only serve as a tool for our team to stay within scope but also provide our valued clients with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect.

1. Sessions

Definition: Sessions refer to scheduled blocks of time dedicated to addressing specific client feedback and requests. They are organized to efficiently handle similar tasks together.

Differentiation: Sessions optimize our workflow by consolidating related tasks. This approach enables us to complete projects more efficiently while ensuring quality.

Impact on Estimates: Sessions are factored into the project timeline and may influence the overall project schedule.

2. Drafts

Definition: Drafts are the initial iterations of designs, content pieces, ads, slogans, or strategic proposals. They serve as a starting point for further refinement.

Differentiation: Drafts are the first tangible representations of our ideas. They provide a visual or written framework to build upon and refine.

Impact on Estimates: The number of drafts included in the package is specified in the initial estimate. Additional drafts may be subject to separate agreements.

3. Edits and Alterations

Definition: Edits and alterations refer to minor modifications within the design, content, or strategy. These could include tweaks in color schemes, subtle text adjustments, or minor shifts in element placement.

Differentiation: Edits and alterations are small-scale adjustments that do not alter the fundamental elements of the project. They are relatively quick to implement and are usually part of the fine-tuning process.

Impact on Estimates: Edits and alterations are factored into the project timeline and budget to accommodate refinement and optimization.

4. Changes,

Definition: Changes involve revisions that go beyond minor changes. This stage may include substantial alterations to content, design elements, or strategic approaches.

Differentiation: Changes focus on refining and enhancing the material. They may involve rewriting, restructuring, or redesigning to achieve optimal results.

Impact on Estimates: Changes are considered in the initial estimate, but extensive edits beyond the agreed scope may be subject to additional charges.

3. Additions

Definition: Additions involve the introduction of new elements or features to the design, content, or strategy. These can significantly impact the project by requiring adjustments to existing elements.

Differentiation: Additions represent a substantial change to the project scope, potentially affecting the overall direction and focus. They often require a reevaluation of existing materials.

Impact on Estimates: Additions necessitate a reevaluation of the project scope and may lead to adjustments in the timeline and budget.

5. Strategy

Definition: Strategy is the foundational stage where we dive deep into understanding the client's goals, target audience, market trends, and competition. This involves comprehensive research and analysis to develop a clear roadmap for the project.

Differentiation: Unlike other stages, strategy sets the overall direction and informs subsequent decisions. It lays the groundwork for design, content, and advertising choices.

Impact on Estimates: Strategy requires a significant initial investment of time and effort, but it forms the backbone of a successful project.

6. Concepts and Concept Notes

Definition: Concepts are distinct and innovative ideas, approaches, or shapes that serve as the foundation for design, content, or strategy. A Concept Note is a concise document that outlines the key elements of a concept, including its objectives, target audience, and potential impact.

Differentiation: Concepts are unique and hold significant value. They offer different creative directions, each with its own potential for success. Clients may be presented with multiple drafts of various concepts, allowing them to choose the one that will set the tone for the work to follow.

Alignment with Scope and Strategy: Choosing the right concept is crucial, as it will guide subsequent stages of the project. The selected concept will align with the established project scope and strategy, ensuring a cohesive and effective execution.

Impact on Estimates: Developing and presenting multiple concepts may require additional time and effort, but it is a critical step in ensuring that the chosen concept aligns with the client's vision and goals.