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Prevent Scope Creep with S.M.A.R.T. Goals

Set a clearly defined scope with business consultant Peter Drucker’s tried-and-true S.M.A.R.T methodology

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SPECIFIC

Discuss with the decision makers what is and what is not included in the project.

Examples:

Which areas of the home are and are not in the project?

What materials will be included in the project?

Which existing pieces will stay in the project?

Who is the key decision maker on material selections?

MEASURABLE

Quantify in numbers and sizes what you’ll be changing about the home.

Examples:

How many metres of flooring will you install?

How many windows and doors will you replace?

How many light fixtures will you be adding or replacing?

ACCEPTABLE

Ensure both you and the homeowner agree on the initial proposal.

Examples:

Does the homeowner agree with your terms?

Is the project within the client's budget?

REALISTIC

Set timelines that can accommodate all aspects of the project, and factor in contingencies for delays.

Examples:

How long will it take for custom furniture to arrive?

How many workers can you schedule at one time?

Will the homeowner’s budget match their wish list?

TIME-BOUND

Include a schedule or project calendar that identifies important events and deadlines.

Examples:

What are the target completion dates based on project phases?

When are deliverables due?

When are individual deliverables due, and what has the highest priority?

When are payments or instalments expected to be fulfilled?

You can download these useful tips as a PDF document by clicking here.

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