Use real expertise as the source
An interview with someone who performs the work can reveal details a generic brief misses. Ask about the choices, common problems, and limits customers should understand, then check the draft with that person. Keep a rollback or correction plan for important changes.
Define handling of recordings, drafts, internal documents, and unpublished material. Record confidentiality and attribution terms in the agreement. Use only the customer information needed for the agreed work.
Brief before drafting
Define the reader, their question, the intended format, and the next action. A brief should name the evidence needed and what the piece will deliberately leave out. Agree how new requests will affect cost and timing.
Ask someone who performs the work to check methods, examples, and limitations. Keep a source list so factual claims can be reviewed later. Use dated records rather than relying on memory at the next review.
- Current accounts and assets
- Verified business information
- Customer questions
- Budget and team capacity
Discuss Your Priorities