Description
A spec sheet is a structured questionnaire you fill out with a client at the beginning of a project. It ensures you collect all the information you need to start, so you do not have to send endless follow-up emails. This assignment asks you to create your own.
Learning Objectives
By completing this assignment you will be able to:
- Identify the essential information needed to begin a creative project
- Design a professional client intake document
- Practice thinking like a freelance business owner
Steps
- Think through a hypothetical first meeting with a new client. What do you need to know to write up a design brief and start the project?
- Create a spec sheet with at least 15 questions covering: client contact information, project description and goals, target audience, existing brand assets (logo, colors, fonts, brand guide URL), examples of work they like, timeline, budget, approval process, and revision policy.
- Format it as a usable document, Google Form, Google Doc, Word, or a designed PDF.
- Add blank space under each question for answers when you meet with a client.
- Upselling: Include a section for additional services you could offer. No logo? Offer one. No brand guide? Offer to create one.
- Post a screenshot to Discord for class comparison. Comment on at least 3 classmates’ spec sheets.
- Submit your Discord post and a PDF here.
Example
AI is useful for this assignment, describe the type of work you want to do and ask it to generate a list of client intake questions. Just make sure the result reflects your actual practice.
Example question with a pro tip:
Social media handles: ________________________
Check these before the meeting, your client’s online presence tells you a lot about their brand before they say a word.
How to Submit
Post your screenshot to Discord. Submit a PDF and screenshots of your Discord post and comments here.