Why?
This document creates a proofing system where every deliverable must pass through at least 3 hands until it reaches the client. This eliminates the risk of sharing documents with errors, and increases our ability to deliver high quality work to our clients.
What counts as copy?
Sometimes we may think - “this is a simple template that I am editing, so it doesn’t need to be reviewed thoroughly, right?.” However, these are some of the points where the most errors slip through the cracks (especially if the template was provided by a client who did not proof their own work).
For this reason, every single deliverable should follow this process in the first round of edits, at a minimum.
After this point, steps 2 and 3 can be skipped unless the client introduces major design or copy changes (that will be up to the primary designer/writer on that task to decide).
Below are the recommended steps every writer should take when reviewing work.
Review Process
- The Primary Writer creates the copy.
- This person should also review their copy first.
- The Secondary Writer will take the first initial review, feedback, as a backup.
- Then the Primary Designer can review the design.
- Then Joe/Marcia/Alex will make a final review and approve for client review.
- Often the client will send the copy back for more edits, and the cycle repeats.
What to look for in writing
- Language:
- Check for spelling errors.
- Check for “wordiness”.
- Check for repetitive words
- Check for grammatical errors.
- Read through the copy in your head or out loud
- Eliminate confusing and ‘boring’ copy.
- Punctuation (did you notice this bullet list has missing periods?).
- Message:
- Does the writing style match the client’s voice, language + tone?
- Will the writing grab the audience’s attention? Is there a Call To Action?
- Is the writing style creative?
- Is the writing consistent?
- Format:
- Is the copy easy to read/skim (remember people usually only read the header and first/last sentence)?
- Is the document formatted properly: headings, bolds, italics, hyperlinks?
- Proofreading the design - skim through it.
- Check for basic font cohesion and client logos.
- Does the design match the writing style and tone?
- Client Needs:
- Does the copy suit the client’s wants/needs for this deliverable?
- Check the Basecamp task for requirements.
- Is the word count too much or too little for the deliverable type?
- Are there any words/phrases that CANNOT be used for the client?
- Are there any words/phrases that MUST be used for the client?
- Does the copy suit the client’s wants/needs for this deliverable?