Too often the designing and planning of a project or activity for a new funding bid is left to one person, working to a short deadline on a funding opportunity that has suddenly arisen. This results in project plans that are incomplete, poorly thought out, don’t fit into funding criteria, or whose funding needs are not accurately estimated.
Project Planning Forms - click here to download forms.
Although the Template and the above list can just act as a reference for one person in a hurry, it can also provide the basis for discussion by your group on:
· What is needed
· How it will be achieved and
· How it fits with future planning.
This approach will help to encourage participation and ensure ownership of the project idea from partners, staff, board, volunteers and users. It also provides opportunities to delegate tasks to various people.
Follow this format, and project design and application for funding should become easier
Step 1 Decide on your project
Step 2 Decide on your project's Aims and Objectives
Step 3 Decide on the essential list (Overall Assumptions)
Step 4 Look at the length of time your project will take from start to finish
Step 5 How will you measure the success of your project?
Step 6 Find out what resources you will need (money, people, know-how, etc.)
Step 7 Make out a timetable for your project