We were recently commissioned to design, engineer, manufacture, and deliver a one off exhibition display unit within a very short delivery time.
No time to follow the tried and tested method of design – test – refine. A few things that helped us meet this tough deadline;
- Work back from the delivery date. What milestones do you need to hit for each stage of the process in order to deliver on time? Stick to the plan!
- Limit the time you allow yourself to spend on any given task. This increases focus on the task, and you will be surprised what you can get done. Given more time, people often explore alternatives only to come back to their original idea.
- Limit interruptions. Each time your concentration is broken you need time to get back up to speed on the more important thing you were doing.
- Pre-warn suppliers what you are going to ask of them. Let them know how critical the time-scales are.
- Its quicker (and cheaper!) to double check instructions to suppliers than to rectify an incorrect delivery! Ask a colleague to proof read your drawings / instructions / etc.
- Aim to deliver early, you might really need a day or two to sort out any last minute issues.
