This series explores how Carimus creates excellent experiences and successful project outcomes through our project lifecycle. This lifecycle is adhered to in some form for all our client engagements and, at a high level, moves through 3 distinct phases: Project Launch, Project Execution, and Agency of Record Support. Stay tuned for a look into how each phase builds to accomplish great things with our clients.
Just as every brick strengthens the foundation of an enduring structure, the beginning of a project lays the groundwork for its eventual success.
A solid start sets the tone for a project’s trajectory. By aligning everyone to a shared vision from the outset, a strong start guarantees that the project, regardless of its implementation, embodies your values, resonates with the intended audience, and successfully accomplishes the established objectives.
Project launch… What is it?
A project launch, or kickoff, marks the official start of a new initiative or project involving key stakeholders and team members. This meeting lays a foundation, aligning everyone involved with the project’s goals, objectives, and expectations. During the kickoff, project scope, timelines, and deliverables are discussed and clarified to ensure everyone is on the same page. Additionally, roles and responsibilities are defined to establish accountability and foster collaboration. Ultimately, the project kickoff sets the basis for success by providing a clear direction and unified understanding among all stakeholders.
Why is a project kickoff important?
A strong kickoff is vital to our process, setting the tone and direction for the entire project. It establishes transparency regarding objectives, scope, and goals, ensuring that all team members are aligned and working towards a successful project from the outset. This initial discussion also helps bridge any gaps between the Client’s expectations and our capabilities while also allowing for the integration of minor changes that may have occurred between when the project was envisioned and its anticipated start. With business seemingly moving at the speed of light nowadays, this is an important tool to enable exceptional customer service and build a great working relationship between Carimus and our Clients. It is in the interest of Carimus and the Client to prevent misunderstandings and delays, enabling timely progress and more efficient problem-solving throughout the project’s lifecycle.
A strong project kickoff fosters team engagement and motivation. Involving stakeholders in the planning process and providing a platform for transparent communication instills a sense of ownership, trust, and commitment among team members.
What makes a project kickoff successful?
A successful project kickoff hinges on several key elements.
- Transparent Communication.
Ensuring that all stakeholders understand the project’s objectives, scope, and expectations sets a solid foundation for collaboration and minimizes the risk of misunderstandings later on.
- Preparation.
This involves not only having a well-defined project plan but also understanding the needs and preferences of the stakeholders involved. Tailoring the kickoff agenda to address specific concerns, areas of potential ambiguity, and priorities allows us to maximize our time together.
- An Engaged Group.
High engagement fosters productivity and creativity, enabling enhanced efficiency throughout the process, and delivering high-quality work. A team’s level of engagement drives a project’s success.
What to expect?
The project kickoff meeting is about an hour long and should be attended by all team members and stakeholders. It involves an in-depth review and discussion of information relevant to the project’s success. Carimus and Client teams arrive prepared, having reviewed the items sent regarding the project. While each project is unique in its own right, here’s a look at a typical project kickoff itinerary:
Agenda
- Team and Roles: The introduction of all project team members, detailing their roles and contributions.
- Project Scope Review: This entails examining the established project goals, deliverables, requirements, and assumptions, along with identifying any foreseeable risks.
- Questions and Input Needed: The specifics may vary depending on the project, and these details will be provided in advance. Your preparation beforehand is appreciated. Here are a few examples:
- Share brand guidelines and logo assets
- Point of contact information
- Access to necessary platforms
- Confirmation of future meeting dates and attendees
- Inspo Slides/Design preferences
- Proposed Project Timeline: Review the outline, which provides an overview of key milestones and deliverable deadlines to ensure alignment and clarity among all stakeholders. Adjustments are often made after the call and are categorized into phases based on the SOW agreement.
- Next Steps: To conclude this meeting, a recurring weekly meeting will be set up. Afterward, minutes will be sent out summarizing the kickoff discussion and reviewing forthcoming action items.
Our company was built to combine strategic thinking, creativity, and software development within a single organization, efficiently operating at an accelerated speed while exceeding expectations in quality. When teaming up with Carimus, you are guaranteed to be proud of what we accomplish together.
Looking to transform your business through a modernized brand or technology experience? Let us help craft a first-class experience for your next project. Contact Carimus now!
