Lesson 1: Setting Project Goals and Milestones
✅ Learning Outcomes:
- Define clear project goals aligned with client expectations.
- Break down projects into achievable milestones.
📘 Content:
1. Importance of Project Planning:
A well-planned project reduces delays, scope creep, and miscommunication. It helps freelancers stay on track and build trust with clients.
2. Setting SMART Goals:
- Specific – Clearly define what you will deliver.
- Measurable – Include metrics or deliverables.
- Achievable – Ensure goals are realistic.
- Relevant – Align with client needs.
- Time-bound – Include deadlines.
3. Breaking Down a Project:
Use milestones to segment large tasks into phases. Example for a web development project:
- Week 1: Requirement gathering
- Week 2: Wireframe and design approval
- Week 3: Development phase 1
- Week 4: Testing and revisions
- Week 5: Final delivery
4. Milestone Benefits:
- Monitor progress
- Receive client feedback early
- Easier payment scheduling
🛠️ Activity:
Choose a sample freelance project (e.g., logo design, article series, website build) and create SMART goals and 3–5 key milestones.