Project Scheduling

[Michele Rushworth]

I'm finding it hard to keep track of all the steps involved in the various projects I'm working on and am looking for a system to help me out.

Do any of you use wall charts, software (like Microsoft Project, etc.) or other methods to keep things organized? I know that creating an elaborate Gantt chart might do the trick and I'm wondering if any of you use them.

I figured out that each commission takes almost 40 steps, everything from scheduling appointments, to buying supplies, to planning the clothing for the subject to wear, etc. and as my workload grows so do the scheduling and tracking issues.

Any ideas?

[Chuck Yokota]

Hi Michelle,

I've used Microsoft Project for years for scheduling engineering projects. I've found it very useful for scheduling and tracking my work. I've also used it for home projects, though not for a portrait. Some of its uses, such as keeping a project team coordinated or reporting to management, may not be needed for a solo portrait artist. You can choose what level of detail in planning and tracking works for you. You can create generic project templates, to pull up so you don't have to re-enter the list of tasks, and customize them as needed for each project.

[Chris Saper]

Oh, Michele I haven't heard the phrase "Gantt Chart" for 15 years (loved the idea then, love it now)

As much as I try to use technology, I find that I rely on the year-at-a-glance calendar taped to my wall, and an Excel spread sheet that I keep updated.

I do best by visually looking at the coming months and setting, revising deadlines as needed.

PS When I actually created those charts and the critical path analyses I had some staff to do the details. I have talked to the cat about becoming staff, but somehow he thinks that I am his staff. Sigh.