Project Management & Deadlines
A great artist who misses deadlines will eventually lose their clients. Project management is the art of balancing your creative energy with your professional obligations.
The Importance of Deadlines
Deadlines aren't just for the client—they're for you. A project without a deadline will expand to fill all of your available time, leading to burnout and a backed-up queue.
Setting Realistic Deadlines
- Under-promise, Over-deliver: If you think a drawing will take 3 days, tell the client it will take 7. This gives you a buffer for life's emergencies and allows you to "surprise" the client by delivering early.
- Account for Admin Time: Don't forget that answering emails, sending invoices, and finding references also takes time.
📊 Pro Tip: Using the ArtComms Schedule
Use our built-in Schedule tool to visualize your workload. Drag and drop assignments to see exactly how many hours of work you have committed for the week. If your schedule is full, don't take on more work!
Managing Your Queue
A long queue is a sign of success, but it can also be a source of anxiety.
- The Batching Strategy: Group similar tasks together (e.g., spend all of Tuesday doing sketches for 5 different commissions). This reduces the "mental switching cost."
- Strict Work Hours: Set specific hours for drawing and specific hours for business admin. Protecting your "creative time" is essential for long-term sustainability.
When Life Happens
If you are going to miss a deadline, tell the client before the deadline passes. Most clients are understanding if you are honest and provide a new, firm delivery date.