Frame the project
Signed quote or contract, brief, schedule and the name of the person who approves: without these four elements, feedback arrives in disorder.
Documents to request · Freelancer or agency
Freelance project kickoff: what to ask the client for?
The checklist to send a client before starting a project: framework, material, delegated access and billing, without asking for passwords by email.
A project that starts without the right elements loses days. Here is the list to send as soon as the quote is signed, so you have everything you need before you begin.
For: freelancers, creative studios and small agencies.
The list of documents to ask for
Never ask for a password by email or message: use a password manager or delegated access.
Framework
- Signed quote or contract
- Project brief and goals
- Schedule and key dates
- Contact who approves each stage
Material
- Logo and brand guidelines (vector formats if possible)
- Texts and content to include
- Approved photos and visuals
Access
- Delegated access to the relevant tools (website, hosting, social networks)
- Billing details
Indicative list: the exact documents depend on the file, the organisation and the applicable regulations. Only ask for what is necessary.
Why these documents?
Gather the material
Logo in a vector format, brand guidelines, texts and approved visuals: ask for them straight away, they are the first cause of delay on a web or graphic project.
Get access, properly
Ask for delegated access (an invitation on the tool, a collaborator account) rather than credentials. Passwords must not travel by email.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Starting without an approver: a project reviewed by three people with different opinions drags on.
- Asking for a password by email or messaging: use a password manager or delegated access.
- Receiving files through several channels: name a single place for content and feedback.
- Forgetting billing: contact details, VAT number and payment terms avoid a block when it is time to invoice.
Frequently asked questions
What should you ask a client before starting a project?
A signed quote or contract, the brief, the schedule, the name of the approver, brand elements (logo, guidelines), the content to include, delegated access to the tools concerned and billing information.
How can you get access without asking for a password?
Ask for an invitation with a limited role on the tool concerned (website, hosting, social networks) or use a password manager that allows secure sharing.
Where should you gather the client’s files and feedback?
In a single folder per project. It avoids hunting for versions across several email threads, and the link can be closed at the end of the project.
Make client exchanges easier
Receive the documents in one place.
One private folder per client: they upload files without creating an account, every file is scanned, and you see what is missing.
Create my folder