Being responsive and taking a flexible approach.
Most projects—whether design or web development focused—go through a pretty standard process with words like Discover, Design, Produce, Test, Launch. There are other terms thrown around like Research, Postioning, Ideation, UX Design, Info Architecture etc. Our approach is to focus on the needs of the work and adjust the level of formality and structure to match the expectations and comfort level of the people involved.
There are two general issues. First, if we are working with a client for the first time there will undoubtedly be uncertainty about the process and what to expect during the project. To alleviate this, we outline a work plan with target milestones and communicate proactively throughout the project as things shift and change in the schedule.
Secondly, in most projects it is impossible to know the details about the overall scope and complexity of the work at the outset. Our proposals and estimates are based on assumptions and as things unfold during a project, choices made along the way can dramatically affect the scope, timeline and total costs.
We are keenly aware of these issues and work hard throughout each project to make sure things are in alignment. In the end, managing a fluid project process with subjective choices involved requires collaboration and open communication.
