Every home project starts with an idea. Maybe you need something done. Maybe you want to make a change. Maybe you have a little problem you want to fix. But lots of ideas go unrealized because they don’t have a framework. If you want to translate an idea into action, you have to define a system for moving from concept to execution. Framing your home project keeps you oriented, helps eliminate confusion, and channels your efforts towards a positive result.
That doesn’t mean that a process stifles creativity. It just gives you a model to follow for decision making and helps you progress from point A to B.
Understanding the Original Concept
All projects start with an idea. But an idea is usually fuzzy. So the first move is to clarify what the idea is. What is it that we need to change, or fix, or build, and why is it important?
Having a good idea gives you direction. You can figure out what is important and what can be left out that would over-complicate things.
Set Objectives & Outcomes
An idea, once defined, must be converted into objectives. Objectives define what a project will achieve and serve as a yardstick against which to measure progress.
With outcomes, you can define boundaries and clarify expectations on quality and done. This prevents the need for a million reviews and makes for faster work.
Our next task is to evaluate the resources and constraints involved in this project.
Each home project has constraints. The constraints may be time, money, tools, space, or ability.
By evaluating the resources at the outset, you can plan something that is feasible. Knowing your limitations will help you make reasonable decisions and help you avoid biting off more than you can chew or leaving a project half done.
Phasing the Project
Using phases organizes a project and adds a sense of progression. A phase is a collection of related activities or tasks that advance a project.
Common phases are planning, action and optimization. Phasing the work makes it trackable and keeps you motivated.
Next, let’s craft some practical steps to take.
Clear and logical work definition per phase. Actionable steps are specific, achievable, and properly ordered.
Having this level of detail eliminates confusion in implementation. If every step is already defined before starting, there’s no need to decide what to do, you simply act.
Creating a Realistic Time Line
A timeline relates structure to time. By estimating the time needed for each stage and each task, you can avoid holdups and disappointment.
Having time to adapt, a timeline that is realistic and allows daily effort without too much stress.
The Day Before Execution
Prior to starting the task, prepare all materials and tools needed for the task to minimize disruptions and downtime.
Prep also involves arranging the workspace and going over safety protocols. Being fully prepared helps the process to roll out more smoothly.
Tracking Progress and Making Changes
For structured projects, it’s helpful to have regular milestones and check-ins to review completed steps and ensure that you’re still on track to reach your objectives.
If there is a need to make adjustments, having structure enables us to do so without derailing the train. Flexibility within a framework means the train continues to roll.
Finalize and Assess the Project
An often-overlooked aspect of completion is evaluation. Evaluating the completed item tells you where you succeeded and where you might improve.
EVALUATION Evaluation increases the power of future projects. It converts practice into theory. It is the final step in the action cycle.