In this article, we’ve created a starter Freelance Game Artist Workflow Map that you can use to start planning out your product/service delivery and we’ve outlined a few examples of experiments that you can run in your Freelance Game Artist role.
Ready to get started? Download the Workflow Map template or get in touch to discuss how a workflow coach could help you fast-track your business improvement.
Contents
The path towards better systems and processes in your Freelance Game Artist role starts with mapping out your most important business processes. Being able to see your business processes laid out visually helps you to collaborate with your team on how to improve and grow. By repeating this collaboration process, you’ll develop a culture of continuous improvement that leads to a growing business and streamlined systems and processes that increase customer & staff experience.
To help you start mapping out your processes, we’ve developed a sample flow for a Freelance Game Artist Workflow Map that you can use with your team to start clarifying your processes and then run Business Experiments so you can build a better business.
1. Initial consultation: Meet with the client to discuss their vision, requirements, and goals for the game project.
2. Concept development: Collaborate with the client to create a concept art or mood board that captures the desired look and feel of the game.
3. Asset creation: Design and create various game assets such as characters, environments, objects, and animations.
4. Iterative feedback: Share work-in-progress assets with the client for feedback and make necessary revisions based on their input.
5. Integration: Integrate the finalized assets into the game engine or development platform, ensuring they function correctly and meet technical requirements.
6. Testing and quality assurance: Conduct thorough testing to identify and fix any bugs, glitches, or performance issues in the game.
7. Finalization: Polish and refine the game’s visuals, ensuring consistency and coherence across all elements.
8. Delivery: Provide the client with the final game assets, including all necessary files and documentation.
9. Post-production support: Offer ongoing support and assistance to the client in case of any issues or additional requirements after the game’s delivery.
10. Continuous improvement: Regularly review and analyze the game development process, seeking opportunities for improvement and implementing changes to enhance future projects
Experiment 1: Collaborative Portfolio Showcase
Description: Create a collaborative portfolio showcase with other freelance game artists to display a diverse range of skills and styles. Each artist can contribute their best work and promote the showcase collectively through social media and industry forums.
Expected Outcome: Increased visibility and exposure for all participating artists, leading to potential collaborations, referrals, and new client opportunities.
Experiment 2: Streamlined Communication Process
Description: Implement a project management tool or communication platform to streamline communication with clients and team members. This could include features such as task assignment, file sharing, and progress tracking, ensuring clear and efficient communication throughout the project lifecycle.
Expected Outcome: Improved project organization, reduced miscommunication, and enhanced client satisfaction, resulting in increased client retention and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
Experiment 3: Specialized Niche Marketing
Description: Identify a specific niche within the game development industry, such as mobile games, VR/AR, or indie games, and tailor marketing efforts to target that niche. This could involve creating specialized portfolio pieces, attending niche-specific events or conferences, and engaging with relevant online communities.
Expected Outcome: Increased visibility and recognition within the targeted niche, attracting clients specifically interested in that area, leading to higher conversion rates and more focused project opportunities.
Experiment 4: Skill Expansion and Diversification
Description: Invest time in learning new skills or expanding existing ones to offer a wider range of services. This could include learning new software, exploring different art styles, or acquiring additional technical skills relevant to game development.
Expected Outcome: Increased versatility and ability to take on a broader range of projects, attracting clients seeking a one-stop solution for their game art needs, resulting in increased project opportunities and potential for higher revenue.
Experiment 5: Client Feedback and Testimonials
Description: Implement a system to collect feedback and testimonials from clients upon project completion. This could involve sending out surveys, requesting reviews on industry platforms, or offering incentives for clients to provide feedback.
Expected Outcome: Enhanced credibility and trustworthiness, as potential clients can see positive feedback and testimonials from satisfied clients. This can lead to increased conversion rates, improved client satisfaction, and a stronger reputation within the industry.
Experiment 6: Networking and Collaboration
Description: Actively seek opportunities to network and collaborate with other professionals in the game development industry, such as game designers, developers, or studios. Attend industry events, join online communities, and reach out to potential collaborators to foster relationships and explore collaborative projects.
Expected Outcome: Increased exposure to potential clients and collaborators, leading to new project opportunities, cross-promotion, and knowledge sharing. Collaborative projects can also result in a more comprehensive and appealing portfolio, attracting a wider range of clients.
Experiment 7: Continuous Professional Development
Description: Dedicate time and resources to continuous professional development by attending workshops, webinars, or online courses related to game art, design, or industry trends. Stay updated with the latest tools, techniques, and industry standards to maintain a competitive edge.
Expected Outcome: Improved skills and knowledge, allowing for the creation of high-quality game art that meets industry standards. This can lead to increased client satisfaction, repeat business, and a reputation as a reliable and skilled freelance game artist
The above map and experiments are just a basic outline that you can use to get started on your path towards business improvement. If you’d like custom experiments with the highest ROI, would like to work on multiple workflows in your business (for clients/customers, HR/staff and others) or need someone to help you implement business improvement strategies & software, get in touch to find out whether working with a workflow coach could help fast-track your progress.
