Although every project is different, Ergo has developed guidelines for the general process followed in a typical engagement. This helps to improve communication and efficiency. Of course the process can be changed according to the needs of the individual project, but the outlines below may be helpful in understanding what to expect.
Writing Projects
Research Projects
Most writing projects follow a simple 4-step process, as outlined below.Although this process might be adapted to suit the complexity or individual needs of your project, this outline provides a general guide for understanding how a writing project is structured and managed.
1
DEFINITION
The first step in most projects is a detailed initial consultation to finalize the objectives, scope and other key information needed to start the project.This includes overall intentions and expectations, the intended audience, the way the document is to be used to help achieve specific goals, and desired results.
It is usually helpful for customers to complete an Initial Consultation Form in advance in order to save time and focus effectively.
Step One Milestone: Following the initial consultation, an outline will be provided that shows the approach, structure and key messages for the project.
2
RESEARCH
Once the outline is agreed upon, Ergo will begin any detailed background research needed to complete the project, including interviews with subject matter experts, review of existing documents and other secondary research, or other research as required.
If extensive research or analysis is required this will be discussed in advance and may be priced separately.
Step Two Milestone: A checkpoint meeting will be held to discuss any changes needed to the original outline based on what the research reveals
3
DRAFT & REVIEW
An initial draft will be provided to the project authority for circulation and review among stakeholders.Generally the project authority should be responsible for consolidating the feedback if there are multiple reviewers, although exceptions can be made when logical.
Step Three Milestone: Feedback on the initial draft is provided, either during a review meeting or in written form.
4
FINAL EDIT
A second draft will be submitted for review and final changes made in consultation with he project authority. In cases where graphic design work creates layout constraints this step may be enlarged to include major editing to allow the written content to fit into available space.
Step Four Milestone: Once the final document is approved the project is closed.
Because of the wide variety in the possible type, method, complexity and scale of research projects, it is difficult to define the project process exactly in advance. These projects will be defined more exactly in the proposal Ergo provides. In general, most research projects will follow the following three phases:
1
PHASE ONE: Research Objecrtives
The first step in any research project is to define what needs to be discovered. Ergo will work with you and key project members to establish the purpose of the research and what information is needed to fulfill that purpose with as much precision as is possible.
Many companies have already finished this phase before hiring a researcher. If this is the case, this phase is simply to establish a common understanding. If not, Ergo takes a more active role to facilitate the process of defining objectives and desired outcomes.
Step One Milestone: A brief research objectives summary document which details the agreements reached during this phase.
2
PHASE TWO: Research Design
With clearly understood objectives, Ergo will proceed in developing a detailed methodology for the research project.
For primary research such as focus groups or interviewing, this includes defining the study sample population, approximate costs, and developing the actual research instrument itself (for example, a written or telephone survey, interview questions, focus group moderator guidelines, etc.)
For secondary research, this step includes defining potential research sources, as well as any associated costs. It also usually includes a brief outline of the final research report.
Step Two Milestone: A research proposal will be submitted, including a detailed methodology, costing and any research instruments which are to be used. Work proceeds to Phase 3 when the proposal has been reviewed, modified if needed, and accepted.
3
PHASE THREE: Conduct Research and Report
This is actually conducting the research, analyzing the results and reporting on the findings, analysis and recommendations. This may take the form(s) of a written report, powerpoint presentation, in-person meeting or teleconference, depending on the project.
Step Three Milestone: Submission of the final research report.
Initial Consultation Form