It seems too often that we run into the issue of customers pitching projects with unrealistic expectations. I admire a client with drive to get something big accomplished, but big dreams sometimes cloud our clients’ vision. This can translate into unrealistic parameters and unachievable expectations. The adage, “anything is possible with technology,” is perhaps true at its core, yes, but it is also very much contingent on existing, available technological resources and a client’s willingness to invest adequate time and money.

It is really hard to navigate unbalanced projects because they are often something exciting to us that we also want to do, but the project itself just cannot be completed within the client’s fixed timeframe or their financial or technological parameters. How do we help our clients understand the balance in a project’s timeframe, existing technological limitations, and funding?

Most clients simply demand that a project be completed cheap and fast and with extraordinary quality! Over time, we must learn to reject some projects. If we can do a project cheap and fast, the quality will always be low. Why? Cheap and fast is never tried and tested. We have to avoid unbalanced project combos because no one wins. Neither we nor our clients will leave the completed contract feeling good about the work that has been done. Do you want your name attached to unrefined work? Probably not.

We enjoy projects that balance money, quality, and time. It makes for better work experience and more enjoyable interpersonal transactions with our clients. So how do we manifest more of these? Listen to their needs. Then take a moment in your initial interaction with your client to explain existing technological limitations. Then do your best to also convey the importance of balancing time and funding with your client’s vision and needs. They do not live in our world. Most of our clients see Hollywood’s interpretations of current technology and they assume that it is real and universally accessible.

Show your clients first what is possible by comparing their project to existing programs. Break down what their needs entail for their project. Then break down what that means you will need from them regarding time and financing in order to bring their vision into actuality. Show them the balance that will broker the best results for everyone involved.