Project Planning
When planning a creative project, like scribbling a screenplay or novel, developing a video game, or even starting a new business, taking a first-principles approach can help ensure the viability of your endeavor.
Define the Problem or Goal: Start by stating what you want to achieve. The goal should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For instance, "I want to write a horror screenplay within six months that I can sell, enter into a contest, or use as a sample to get representation."
EXAMPLE: "I want to create and pitch an animated TV series called 'Trash Pandas' featuring two raccoon brothers in NYC's gangster underworld, populated by different animal gangs, within the next two years."
Break it Down: Now, deconstruct this goal into its fundamental components. For a script, these could be the plot, characters, setting, target audience, comparable movies, etc. Each of these components can be broken down further.
EXAMPLE: The fundamental components might include the main characters and their journeys; the dynamics and characteristics of the animal gangs; the narrative and themes of the series; the visual style and tone of the animation; potential networks or streaming services you might pitch to; the target audience; and marketing strategies.
Question and Validate Every Assumption: A ruthless analysis of the evidence is required. For each component, ask questions like, What makes a compelling plot? What are the characteristics of my target audience? What commonalities are shared by any screenplays that are currently selling? What shows are people watching? What are producers and studios looking for this year?
Use data from market research, case studies, user surveys, expert opinions, and other resources to validate your assumptions.
EXAMPLE: What makes a compelling character in a successful animated series? What types of character arcs resonate with viewers these days?
EXAMPLE: How can the behavior and characteristics of these animals be integrated into their roles as gang members? How will these dynamics create conflict and drive the plot?
EXAMPLE: What themes will be explored in this series? What narratives in animated series have been successful, and how can those be applied or adapted to this series?
EXAMPLE: What animation styles and tones are popular or up-and-coming? How can these be uniquely blended to suit the story and themes of 'Trash Pandas'?
EXAMPLE: Which networks or streaming services are a good fit for this series? What are their current selection criteria, and what similar shows have they hosted?
EXAMPLE: Consider your adjacent possibilities. Analyze your past experiences, skills, connections, and unique insights relevant to the project. What writing experiences do you have? What connections can you leverage in the industry? What unique perspectives can you bring to the project? These factors can drastically impact the viability and direction of your project.
Reassemble and Innovate: Once you've broken down everything and validated your assumptions, it's time to put the components back together. Look for opportunities to innovate and set your project apart. For instance, you might find an untapped niche within your target audience or an innovative take on a successful trope.
EXAMPLE: After breaking down and analyzing each component, put them back together to craft your unique approach. You might find a trend toward adult animations with complex themes or a demand for shows with anthropomorphic characters. Use these insights to shape your series and set it apart.
Create an Actionable Plan: Once you've reassembled your project using the first principles, outline your plan of action. Include what steps you'll take and when, what resources you'll need to overcome any potential obstacles, and have realistic contingency plans.
EXAMPLE: Outlining the series, drafting episodes, developing character and environment designs, identifying potential networks to pitch to, and creating a viable schedule for your scribbling.
Test and Refine: Test your plan on a small scale before you go all in. This could be scribbling and sharing a logline, pitch, or some pages to get feedback. Refine your plan accordingly.
Be mindful of not spending too much time on the planning process. At some point, you’ve just gotta go for it. But remember the battle-born military adage:
“No plan survives first contact with the enemy.”
