02 / DEFINING THE WORK
Give your scope some edges.
A scope describes what the project includes, who makes decisions, and what needs to happen before you move forward.
Start with the outcome
Ask what the client wants the work to achieve. “Create a landing page for an upcoming workshop” is more specific than “improve our website.” Record the audience, the main action visitors should take, and what the client will use to judge the result.
Make each deliverable countable
- Name each item and its quantity.
- Specify file formats, page counts, dimensions, or video length.
- State which versions, sizes, or language variants are included.
- Describe how and where you will hand over the work.
Example: “One responsive landing page with up to six sections, using copy and images supplied by the client.” If hosting, copywriting, or future updates are separate, write it down.
Agree on the feedback process
Choose one person to combine stakeholder feedback. Set a deadline for each review and agree on a number of revision rounds. A round should mean one consolidated set of comments on the work presented.
Define the difference between refining the approved direction and starting a new direction. Discuss how you will quote extra work before it happens.
List what you need from the client
Write a short dependency list: approved copy, brand files, access permissions, footage, or sign-off. Tie the start date to receiving the required materials. Explain how a delayed response affects the delivery schedule.
Make the exclusions visible
List adjacent work a client might reasonably expect. Examples include printing, buying images, writing copy, translating content, uploading files, or ongoing support. Use plain descriptions and discuss any unclear item.
Finish with a handoff checklist
- Confirm the final deliverable list.
- Check file names, versions, and formats.
- Document the review status and any unfinished items.
- Record the agreed transfer method and relevant access changes.
- Confirm any follow-up work separately.
Keep the scope with the quote so both documents tell the same story. Formal rights and obligations belong in an agreement suited to your project.
Try the free scope worksheet ↗