These sample schedules will help you plan a timeline for your project. Please remember that they are only guidelines and that multiple steps may occur concurrently. Contact a PSB advisor to help you develop a production schedule specific to your project.
Graphic identity systems - 9-12 weeks
2-3 weeks to review design portfolios, write and send RFP, review bids, select designer
2 weeks for design development and presentation
2 weeks for refinements
2 weeks for design application to business papers (letterhead, envelopes, business cards)
1-2 weeks for refinements and client approval
Stationery production (letterhead, envelopes, business cards) - 2 weeks
1 week to solicit and receive print estimates and approve proof
1 week for printing
Event materials (postcards, posters, invitations) - 14-17 weeks
2-3 weeks for project planning
2-3 weeks to review design portfolios, write and send RFP, review bids, select designer
2 weeks to write content
2-3 weeks for photography
2 weeks for design development and presentation
1-2 weeks for refinements and client approval
2 weeks for printing
1 week for fulfillment and distribution
Newsletters (8-12 pages) - 16-20 weeks
2-3 weeks for project planning
2-3 weeks to review design portfolios, write and send RFP, review bids, select designer
3-4 weeks to write content
2-3 weeks for photography
2 weeks for design development and presentation
2-3 weeks for refinements, layout, and client approval
2 weeks for printing
1 week for fulfillment and distribution
Brochures (8-12 pages) - 15-19 weeks
2-3 weeks for project planning
2-3 weeks to review design portfolios, write and send RFP, review bids, select designer
2-3 weeks to write content
2-3 weeks for photography
2 weeks for design development and presentation
2-3 weeks for refinements, layout, and client approval
2 weeks for printing
1 week for fulfillment and distribution
Brochures (16- to 24-page brochures and multi-part publications) - 16-20 weeks
2-3 weeks for project planning
2-3 weeks to review design portfolios, write and send RFP, review bids, select designer
3-4 weeks to write content
2-3 weeks for photography
2 weeks for design development and presentation
2-4 weeks for refinements, layout, and client approval
2 weeks for printing
1 week for fulfillment and distribution
Websites (up to 32 pages)* - 20-31 weeks
2-3 weeks for project planning
2-3 weeks to review design portfolios, write and send RFP, review bids, select designer
2-3 weeks for site mapping
3-4 weeks to write content
2-3 weeks for photography
3-4 weeks for design development and presentation
3-4 weeks for production
1-3 weeks for usability testing
3-4 weeks for programming
*For large, complex sites, double the time for production and programming.
Schedule busters
The following are common roadblocks in the life of a project:
- Failure to have key individuals sign off at designated points in the timeline, especially for initial concept and final proofs
- Slipping on the start date
- Vacations not accounted for in the original schedule
- Content/photography not ready
- Paper availability
- Changes to layout or copy in the printer's proof stage or during web programming
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