45. THE BOX PLANNING PROCESS
* The Box Planning Process enables you to work out how to enact the idea. It maps out everything that needs to be done, with each box containing a stage of work.
* The descriptions inside them should be short and clear, and durations can be added to each if helpful.
* Each stage is linked by a directional arrow that shows what happens next, and it is important that the sequence is accurate.
* In this example there are nine stages, moving from articulation of the idea, research and validation, through to financial commitment, responsibilities, progress reporting and testing.
* A cost per stage can be added to each box if it impresses the Finance Director or other investor.
* A well mapped out process like this allows the idea to transcend any criticisms of being ‘too creative’ or ‘fluffy’ by imbuing the whole thing with an organizational rigour.
EXERCISE: Take everything that is needed to make the idea happen, design a process, and break it down into stages. Place each stage in a box, make sure the sequence is correct, and link them with arrows. Make the descriptions as simple as possible. Add durations and costs per stage if helpful. Test-drive on a colleague to make sure all is clear.