How do you find hidden resource needs in a small project?
Trace preparation, delivery and cleanup, listing time, materials, space and willing help. Resources without a price still have limits and costs.
Work backwards from the output
A community booklet needs more than writing: image permissions, layout and distribution also matter. A friend's equipment or venue is not automatically available. Confirm access and preparation requirements for each necessary resource.
Address the fragile dependency first
If the project relies on unconfirmed help, retain an alternative or smaller version. Separate optional decoration from essential conditions. Include cleanup and returning borrowed items.
A worksheet you can use
Output: __. Preparation resources: __. Delivery resources: __. Cleanup: __. Unconfirmed dependency: __. Smaller version: __.
Must the list be complete first?
Start with conditions that could stop the project, then add detail through practice. Keep unknowns visible.
Evidence and scope
This inventory is not a cost estimate or revenue forecast. Other people's time is not automatically free to use.
IDEO.org includes nonmonetary resources. WKND collaboration scenarios are original and unvalidated. IDEO.org Design Kit — Resource Flow
Sources and further reading
This collection in Chinese and English · Life possibilities library