Something I feel like I don’t talk a lot about is how daunting it can be to write out a process for an entire service.

Especially if the scope of work tends to shift a little for every client.

Because if you start looking at all of the different ways a project could go, then you’re going to get a ton of if this, then that scenarios… and next thing you know, you’ve got a 48-page doc outlining one service. Yikes.

I mean, sure — if that’s how it has to go, then go for it. But for most of us, that’s just overkill and overwhelming.

So what other option is there if you want to have a process for a service, while still staying flexible based on your clients’ needs?

You create a foundational process — the baseline steps that happen every single time, no matter who the client is or how the scope shifts.

Then, you layer in micro processes — the small, self-contained workflows that handle one specific piece of your service. Think of them like slices of cake: complete on their own, but even better as part of the whole.

For example, let’s say you’re a brand designer. A client hires you for brand design, a basic and straightforward service. The foundation for that process might be:

• Discovery call
• Contract & deposit
• Strategy session
• Moodboard approval
• Initial draft & revisions
• Second draft & revisions
• Final delivery

Everything else — extra logo variations, additional rounds of revision, pattern design, social media templates — those are micro processes. Each has its own mini workflow you can drop in as needed.

For example, a “social media template add-on” micro process might include:

• Confirm social platforms & template sizes
• Design initial concepts
• Request feedback
• Make edits
• Deliver final templates

That way:

• You have something documented that keeps you consistent
• You’re not reinventing the wheel every single time
• You can add or skip things without breaking your whole process
• You can make strategic changes in one place without rewriting everything

If the thought of mapping your entire service feels like staring into a black hole of “what ifs” — start with your foundation. Then break it into micro processes you can actually use.

Because when you have a process that’s simple to follow, easy to adapt, and made of plug-and-play parts… you’ll actually use it. And it’ll actually work.

til next time,

Ps. My Foundation + Micro Process framework is how I keep my client experience streamlined without ever feeling boxed in. I use it inside both the mini and full versions of the Framework — so whether you want to dip a toe in on one platform or build it all out, I’ve got you covered.