# Checklist: Preparing for the Initial Client Meeting
# 1. Understand the Project at a High Level
✅ Read the Proposal Carefully – Ensure every team member is familiar with the problem the client wants to solve.
✅ Identify Unclear Areas – Highlight anything in the proposal that is vague, broad, or needs more clarification.
✅ Research the Problem Space (Briefly) – If the proposal mentions a specific industry, process, or challenge you’re unfamiliar with, do a quick search to get context.
# 2. Define Meeting Goals & Agenda
✅ Assign a Team Lead for the Meeting – One person should guide the conversation and keep things moving.
✅ Plan Team Introductions – Everyone should be ready to briefly introduce themselves.
✅ Draft Key Questions to Ask the Client, focusing on:
- Problem & Pain Points – What specific challenges led them to propose this project?
- Goals & Priorities – What’s most important for them to achieve? What would make this project a success?
- Minimum Viable Product (MVP) – If we had to deliver a first version with only the essentials, what would it include?
- Existing Processes & Tools – What are they currently doing? Are there tools they have already tired?
- Constraints & Limitations – Do they have any budget, legal, or other constraints that could impact the project?
# 3. Set Clear Expectations
✅ Time Commitment – Be prepared to explain that this is a part-time student project (~5-10 hours per week per person).
✅ Feasibility & Scope – Understand that not everything in the proposal may be possible; be ready to discuss prioritization.
✅ Communication Preferences – Ask how they prefer to stay in touch (email, meetings, Slack, etc.).
# 4. Logistics & Professionalism
✅ Confirm Meeting Details – Ensure time, date, and method (Zoom, in-person, etc.) are set.
✅ Prepare to Take Notes – Assign a notetaker to document key points and action items.
✅ Be On Time & Professional – Arrive punctually and be engaged. Dress appropriately!
✅ Have a Plan for Wrapping Up the Meeting – Summarize key takeaways and next steps before ending.
# 5. Plan for Post-Meeting Follow-Up
✅ Debrief as a Team – Immediately after the meeting, discuss what was learned and adjust plans accordingly.
✅ Send a Follow-Up Email – Recap key discussion points, decisions made, and next steps.
Remember to CC your instructors on all client communication!