Working with deadlines
Topic Overview
This topic will cover the importance of managing your deadlines over the entire yearbook production process.
It's extremely important that everyone keeps tabs on what everyone in the team is doing. Some tasks that need to be completed may depend on someone else completing a task beforehand. If someone isn't pulling their weight and getting things done on time, a severe domino effect of late work may pile up.
Be early
A technique that has worked well among many yearbook teams is to allow at least 2 weeks leeway for every deadline stated by their yearbook publisher. This gives extra slack to the entire team if things go haywire.
Write, write, write!
By writing down deadlines clearly on a central board in your yearbook workspace, everyone knows what needs to be done, when a task needs to be done, and whether a task has been completed. Large posters pinned on a cork board work well.
If you need more time, just ask
Realistically, if a team member is unable to complete a task on time, it's very important to let someone know as soon as possible. There's usually time to extend a deadline, even with yearbook publishers.
What you've learned from this topic:
- Be early for all deadlines to avoid grief
- Write down your deadlines
- Ask for more time if you need it
Next topic : Coverage
It's been said before, but we must say it again: Do not, under any circumstance, procrastinate.