Developing collection calendars can be a lengthy process. The introduction of more complex collection regimes and optimised routes can multiply both the number of calendars required and the development time. A project-planning approach can help ensure that essential target dates and deadlines can be met, and the necessary resources are identified and agreed at the start. We can help you set up a plan based on our template, adapting it to fit your local circumstances.
Unless you already have an up-to-date collections dataset, we particularly recommend that plenty of time is allowed to check and clean the raw data, assemble the master collections dataset and validate it. This stage is often the most difficult – particularly so if you’re doing calendars for the first time. After that, it normally takes several iterations of the design and final checking of proof sets before all of the issues are ironed out and the final versions can be signed-off. If only web-based calendars are needed (no printing) then the timetable can be a little shorter.
We’ve consistently found that most new jobs need up to 3 months (elapsed time – not effort!) counting back from when the new calendars go “live” – so this is what we recommend you allow for, for first commissions. Repeat commissions are usually turned round much quicker.
If calendars need to be printed and distributed and you choose to work with our preferred design, print and distribution partner Mail Marketing we can usually cut between 2 and 4 weeks from the timetable. We have delivered several successful commissions together, and have developed a very efficient joint approach to calendar production and distribution. Alternatively if there are already established arrangements in place, we’ll be happy to work with your nominated graphic designers and print contractors.
Click here to see an Example programme, in PDF format.