How to write a project brief

Mar 3, 2018

Knowing how to write a project brief is an important part of beginning a project. But as a critical part of any creative project, they are often not included from the outset.

Essentially, a brief is a note of the core components of a project, detailing what is required, and when.

In a project where design is required, there is a temptation on the part of the client to think that the designer’s job is ’to make something look good’ – while that may be true in part, the process is a little more complex.

Creatives are creative by nature, but disciplined by profession. So when we work on a project with a client we are looking for key information from the outset, to ensure that what is delivered as a final product is what the client acually had in mind. Design is always a content-led process – with an end-product in mind.

There are a variety of details that make the difference to what is required in a creative project, and these should be detailed in any project brief.

They include:

– What the piece to be created is
– Size
– Quantity
– Published output (Print/Screen etc)
– Print specifications (if printed)
– Content – To include all text content and imagery
– Any brand guidelines that need to be adhered to
– Deadline required by

By nature of how we work, the service offered by Tentmaker Creative is a little more encompassing. It’s normal for us to work closely with a client through the process of defining what they need, collating content, creating a piece and ordering the final product – but it is imperative that the client understands as much of the process as possible.

Regular clients will have a Marketing Support Sheet from Tentmaker – this helps determine the exact needs of your project before we start working on it. If you aren’t sure of how to develop a project brief for your project you might like to take a look. Let us know if you would appreciate a copy.

Not working to a brief can often lead to delays and confusion on projects, something that neither party wants. Define your needs and ideas from the outset and there is every chance your project will take up less time, and less money.

Need more information on how to write a project brief? Get in touch, we’d be happy to hear from you.

About the Author | Roddy Mackay
Tentmaker Creative is a small communications consultancy run by Roddy Mackay, a creative with 15 years’ experience of working with a variety of clients in a range of places to help them tell their stories well. Roddy’s work is split between running Tentmaker Creative and as a freelance photographer, where he shoots a combination of travel, weddings and commercial projects. As Tentmaker Creative, Roddy works with a range of other creatives to help clients think through a bigger picture – and to create content and strategies that help you engage your audience more effectively.

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