Event and program launches require a series of steps and lots of planning beyond writing the web pages, articles, and emails. Here are 10 steps for planning a program launch.
1. List everything you need to do as a small action step. Write down all the steps from my previous three articles: 7-Steps-to-Create-a-Coaching-Program, How-to-Promote-Your-Webinar, and 10-Steps-to-Promote-a-Program. Add to your list any tasks you need to accomplish. Include registering for your teleseminar service, scheduling your practice session there, and scheduling your actual events there. Get very detailed.
2. List any other services and materials you need to finish your events, such as a researcher, a proofreader, coach, courses, articles or books. Add steps to contact these people or obtain these resources.
3. Write beside each item a guess as to how long it will take. For example, I think it will take me about 30 minutes to register for a GoToWebinar account.
4. Add up the time you need to spend.
5. Add in a “fudge factor” of 30 to 50 percent, depending on your experience. If you haven’t done this before, add in 50 percent or even more. Add this to your due date or allow more time before your due date. THIS IS IMPORTANT!
6. Decide how much time you have each day or each week to work on your launch.
7. Map all your key tasks from your end date backwards, showing the key dates. You can start with a web, such as the one in my free ebook, How to Plan and Organize Ideas for your Information Product (see upper left of this page to request your copy if you're new here). If you use my book, instead of listing ideas, you’ll list all the main tasks to be done and all the steps beneath them.
8. Number the tasks in the order you need to accomplish them on your map. You can do this by hand or use mindmapping software that converts your map into a project diagram. You can also type the tasks in their order into Microsoft Project or other planning software as well.
9. Place the key dates on your calendar as well as when you will work on your project steps in between these key dates.
10. Now follow your plan.
Questions for Reflection and Comment
- What are your experiences with event or product launches?
- What exactly are the tasks and specific steps to launch your event or product?
- What materials, resources, and services do you need?
- What help do need to stay on track?
- On which days and times will you work on this project?
- On which days and times will you send out emails to your community? To your partners?
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