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 - Need By
When is the event?
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.
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.