As a kid some of my fondest memories are of working with my Dad around the house. My Dad’s a pastor, but he knows how to swing a hammer and through the years I’ve learned a lot from him that I now am passing on to my kids. We always had a lot of fun together. In fact, I can still hear my Dad say with a smile, “I have cut that piece of wood 3 times and it’s still too short.”
I’m sorry to say that I’ve experienced that mentality on the job more times than I care to admit. Not being prepared can create a lot of headaches for you and those around you. I have found that when my clients or I are in too big of a hurry, it usually takes longer and costs more than if we had taken the time to do it right the first time. Based on those experiences, here are 5 questions you should ask yourself before your next project.
1. What’s the objective?
As simple as it sounds, a clear agreed upon plan of attack will save you a lot of time. Ending up with a beautiful cabinet may be great, unless you were trying to build a table.
2. What’s your budget?
Can you accomplish your objective with your available budget? If not, you’ve got to either adjust your objective or your budget.
3. What’s your timetable?
Create a realistic schedule and give yourself more time than you think you’ll need. Be aware that a project that normally takes 6 weeks to accomplish can sometimes be done in 2 weeks, but at an additional cost.
4. Is this job within the scope of your expertise?
Have you tackled a project like this before? If not, surround yourself with people who have. That’s why they’re called professionals.
5. What’s the plan?
Take a few minutes to map out your plan. Determine the very next thing you need to do to keep things moving, then do it.
Don’t get yourself in trouble by skimping on the planning because you’re in a hurry. Trust me, it’s always better to measure twice and cut once.
