Time To Do Things Right

I recently attended an early morning lecture to expose myself to Klip Collective, a Philadelphia based visual projection mapping agency. I went to learn more about how Klip creates stories using lighting, sound and technology and find any parallels or differences with what I manage, software product design and development.

In both of our creative fields, there is an element of uncertainty, and how Klip embraces this was the key takeaway for me. Their unwavering value of bold new solutions requires a specific amount of preparation.

As a PM, there was one point that was briefly touched on but stuck with me. It had to do with the process and approach that Klip took for their latest mesmerizing installation, Nightscape.

To complete the aesthetic vision and for viewers’ emotions to be memorable, the team said they would need 1 year to deliver the job. This time would allow Klip to set the project up for success and mitigate unknown risks. Time early on was used to resource staff, perform necessary discovery and research, and experiment with new mediums such as plants blowing in the wind. More time was used for creative exploration and ultimately refinement and execution of what they do best.

I envy the fact that Klip was able to secure the valuable resource that they needed, time, in order to meet high standards. I think this project could have gone one of two ways:

• Allocate enough time. Prepare properly. Execute. Have room for the unexpected. Deliver.
• Succumb to pressure. Cut corners. Rush creativity. Produce less than desirable work.

To me it’s simple. Give yourself enough time to do the things you need to do for success. That means understanding the logical progression of steps required. Knowing your critical path. I’m not trying to avoid client driven deadlines, but I have found when the execution team sets the pace, it creates a sense of motivation, determination and commitment. The team will find a way if they make a promise to themselves. In the long run, this creates the best work, and that is all that matters.

This reminds me of an agency services venn diagram. These are the 3 services offered (Good, Fast Cheap) and clients have their pick of 2. But when it comes to innovation, personally, like Klip Collective, I’d prefer to offer 1, and have clients only pick 1, “Good.”

Find out more about Klip Collective here.