Things I Focus on Before I Even Start a Project
Each project begins somewhere — but for me, the actual work begins before the first design, caption, or strategy is ever made.
Whatever it is, whether a tiny social media project, a new website design, or SEO optimization, I find that how you prep directly informs what you make. Here’s a glimpse at the things that I emphasize before I ever tackle any project:
1. Learning the Brand’s Core Identity
Before I do anything, I attempt to know the “why” of the brand — not simply what it does, but what it represents.
What does it want to be recognized for?
What type of audience does it desire to reach?
What tone and personality does it convey?
This step assists me in ensuring my work is in harmony with the voice of the brand — not merely produce content, but produce meaning.
2. Knowing the Audience
A plan that doesn’t resonate with the correct audience will never work.
Prior to beginning, I ask:
Who are we attempting to connect with?
What are their behaviors, challenges, and beliefs?
Where do they hang out online?
Knowing your audience ensures that I’m not blind guessing — I’m designing with purpose.
3. Clearness on Purpose
Each project needs an endpoint. Engagement, conversion, reach, or awareness – I define the primary objective up front.
This keeps the project on track and allows me to define success properly.
4. Creating a Plan (Even a Simple One)
I prefer clarity. I always write down:
What needs to be done
In what order
By when
A simple checklist keeps me organized and prevents me from rushing through crucial details.
5. Envisioning the Final Product
Before I begin designing, writing, or constructing — I visualize how the end product should feel.
Not necessarily in design, but in effect.
Should it be bold? Simple? Cozy?
That mood informs my choices.
6. Researching Inspirations (But Not Copying)
I reference trends, references, and ideas to get the creative juices flowing — but I always try to create something unique. Inspiration is helpful, but making it my own is what makes a project stand out.
Final Thought
Great outcomes don’t happen by rushing — they happen by deliberate beginnings.
I listen, plan, and align before I begin any project — because when you get the foundation right, everything else goes more smoothly.
Ultimately, all successful projects start long before the first task is completed. The journey’s smoothness or disarray depends on the preparation, which includes everything from target audience research to goal-setting and KPI Early clarification helps me avoid costly errors and needless detours, so I’m not just planning for the project.
Knowing the available resources, such as time money, talent, and tools, is equally crucial. This guarantees that the strategy is in line with what is truly achievable and aids in realistic planning. I try very hard to avoid overpromising and underdelivering, which is what happens when I skip this step.
Lastly, I remind myself that being flexible is a strength rather than a weakness. Even the most well-researched project can face unexpected changes,
So That’s it signing off