The completion of a project is a crucial moment that impacts your future collaboration with the client. It's important not to neglect the final steps to leave a positive impression on the client and lay the foundation for future projects. In this guide, you will learn how to effectively close a project in Adobe InDesign and which elements should be considered in a final conversation.
Key insights
A successful project closure in Adobe InDesign involves providing all necessary documents to the client in a timely manner, conducting a final conversation, gathering feedback, and ensuring transparent billing.
Step-by-step guide
The first step in closing the project is to hand over the agreed materials to the client. This includes the InDesign files, IDML files, or the final print PDFs. Make sure all these documents are provided without being prompted. It conveys professionalism and shows that you take the agreements seriously.
To further optimize the process, schedule a final conversation with the client. This is especially important if future collaboration is planned. Even if no new project is in the works, active engagement leaves a positive impression and strengthens the client relationship.
Part of the final conversation may involve reviewing the printed title together, if it is already available. It makes sense to browse through the book together and discuss specific challenges. This way, the client can understand which points were tricky and where there may be potential for improvement.
In this context, it is also advisable to give the client constructive suggestions for future projects. For instance, you could point out that adjustments to the Word data would be beneficial to optimize future typesetting costs. Such information is valuable for the client and demonstrates your expertise.
Also, take the time to gather feedback from the client. Ask for comments or suggestions for improvement. Even if the feedback isn’t always positive, it’s crucial to hear this input to continually improve your service.
Another important aspect is the discussion of the invoice. Clarify whether the final invoice deviates from the original quote, for example, due to additional tasks. Transparent billing is important so that the client can understand the costs and does not feel frustrated by hidden charges.
Finally, the client should receive all delivered materials in impeccable condition. This includes printed scripts, CDs, media, or reference titles. These materials should be free of personal notes and comments to leave a professional impression.
If you consider these four steps – providing documents, the final conversation, gathering feedback, and transparent billing – you can be sure that the project will be successfully completed, both for you and the client.
Summary
An effective project closure means providing all materials professionally, maintaining the client relationship, collecting feedback, and billing transparently. This secures you a positive impression and lays the groundwork for future collaboration.
Frequently asked questions
How do I prepare the materials for the client?Make sure to prepare all agreed documents, like InDesign files and print PDFs, in perfect condition.
How do I conduct a final conversation?Schedule an appointment with the client and discuss the challenges and successes of the project.
What should I consider when getting feedback?Be open to criticism and use it as an opportunity to improve your service.
How do I handle the invoice discussion?Clearly and transparently explain all costs, especially if there are deviations from the original quote.
What should I give the client?All delivered materials should be returned in perfect condition and free of comments.
