Page 15 - First Year Handbook

Proactive Project Management
& Understanding Deliverables.

In the dynamic field of design, leaving work until the last minute or misinterpreting project
deliverables and grading criteria can severely impact the quality and innovativeness of
your outcomes. By adopting the below approaches, you not only manage your projects
effectively but also lay a strong foundation for successful outcomes in your design
education. This proactive mindset will help you thrive both academically and in future
professional settings.

Start Your Projects Early
Diving into your projects from the start is crucial. It allows ample time to explore
various creative possibilities, adjust to unexpected challenges, and refine your work
without the pressure of looming deadlines. Early engagement is key to developing
well-thought-out and innovative designs.

Understand Project Requirements
Before you begin any design task, make sure you fully understand what is
expected. Review the project guidelines, deliverables, and grading criteria carefully.
If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask your instructors for more details. This
step ensures that every part of your work is aligned with the project’s goals.

Schedule Regular Check-ins
Set up regular times to review your work against the project requirements. These
check-ins are moments to assess if you are on track or need to make adjustments.
Doing this regularly helps prevent last-minute rushes and ensures your project
meets or exceeds expectations.

Project Management
Effective management of time and resources is pivotal in design projects. Start by
outlining your project goals and deliverables. Break down your project into stages;
allocate timeframes and resources for each phase. Regularly assess your progress
against your plan and adjust as necessary. Tools like Gantt charts or project
management software can provide a visual aid in keeping projects on track.

Feedback and Critique
Feedback is a cornerstone of the design process. Learn to both give and receive it
constructively. When critiquing others’ work, be specific and objective—focus on
how design choices align with project objectives rather than personal preference.
When receiving feedback, listen actively and use it to iteratively refine your work.
Remember, each critique is an opportunity to grow and enhance your design skills.