Media Performance Lab - Preparing your project proposal

1. Your proposal should be tailored to a specific audience/reader/publisher. - Specifically identify the audience or audiences.

2. Start with an introduction that captivates and "hooks" the recipient. 

3. Deliver a catchy title. Tantalize them with original ideas. 

4. Craft a proposal with a distinctive flavor. 

A. Begin with a clear objective. Design/photography/video proposals don't have to be long. They just have to convey your purpose in writing. First, state your objective. Describe the problem or need you feel your project will meet, then provide a solution based on your research, experience, and skills. - e.g. brochure, website, marketing campaign, etc.

B. Express what you can do for the intended audience by providing benefit statements that convey lasting solutions. Your proposal should show how your design/photography/video skills would help the image of your subject mater, in the community and overall. - A bulleted list of 4-6 benefits specific to the audience(s) and purpose of the project.

C. If you've created similar projects, say so in your text and show samples of past work. However, remember to keep the proposal focused on the problem/topic at hand and not on your past experience. Only mention what is relevant, and keep it short. - If you do not have similar pieces use 3 -5 examples of the information design, look and or feel similar to what you have in mind.

D. Be concise and clear. Your design/photography/video proposal should be concise and to the point, yet it should also provide enough information to answer any questions the supporters of your project might have. Put yourself in their shoes and provide the facts you know they will want. -Follow the journalistic patter of answering the "who, what, where, when, why and how" of the project in question.

E. Provide your phone numbers, email address and any other contact information. Invite them to your website or web page of similar work you have completed and let them know you'd be happy to discuss further details and information via a formal meeting and presentation. In person or virtual.