How do you pass on a complex, yet critical information at scale that also seems to change on the fly? Our WINDOW framework alleviates this challenge by discussing critical human aspects of a project that are absent from the invoice/quote.
Here's an explanation of each letter:
W - What stage are we in the project?
Focus on the status. Are we in proof/ideation/quote stage? If in production is it all due? or is just part of it due?
I - Intent
How will it interact with the intended environment? Why make it at all? What's the journey of this product once it leaves our facility? What will the client/next person do with the product?
N - Needs
When is the event or activity that requires this product?
In-hand due date
Shipping Method
Shipping Contact
Address (remember to focus on Suite Numbers!)
D - Divergences
What’s the last content change? What has changed since the last convo?
O - Desired Outcome
What is the client expecting to receive? What's the target? Who's the graphic designer? (since graphic designers tend to have the clearest target?). Ask for visuals/pictures/videos as much as possible. If we produce a physical proof and they approve it, THAT becomes the target.
W - Worry
What are you worried about? Consider the assumptions, expectations, and believability of yourself and others. What is different about this project from easy projects? What would be helpful for our team to know so we can save time or execute more smoothly?
It's Alive and Always Changing!
This is a living, breathing conversation. We know things can change on a dime and we'll update this as the job progresses. Before moving forward with a project, we'll want to approve both the print file as well as the WINDOW.