As important as a project road map is – things can, will, and should change.

The Struggle

I’ve been a homeowner for nearly 5 years now. I’ve done every massive remodeling project that one can do – kitchen, bath, landscaping – you name it. And, when I say I’ve “done itâ€? that doesn’t mean that I bossed around some contractors (unless my husband counts). I spent hours on end in my “messyâ€? clothes, painting, tiling, planting, laying stone, etc. Each project was vastly different, from its functionality to the materials used. But each project had these things in common: Deadlines came and went, and no matter how well we anticipated, planned, scheduled and prepared, something unexpected always came up.

Remodeling a brand isn’t much different – or any easier. To do it right you have to completely immerse yourself in the project, get your hands dirty, sweat a little. Evaluate your current state and determine:

1. What needs repair
2. What needs a makeover
3. What new elements will have to be utilized
   to make the remodel a success

Count the Cost

You’ll find some elements that appear salvageable – a simple coat of paint will save some dollars and seem good as new. Don’t be fooled and don’t make these decisions too quickly. Think it through and weigh the cost, both monetarily and mentally, of trying to refurbish that piece of your brand. You may find that it’s okay to let it go and begin anew. Or, you may find that there’s such a fond association and quick recognition with that element of your brand that giving it a face-lift, as badly as you think it’s needed, would jeopardize the very essence of what you’re working so hard to maintain.

Be Adaptable

Be patient and be flexible. As important as a project road map is – things can, will, and should change. Those things that “come-up� and throw you off track will make up for the derailment by teaching you a little something that you didn’t know before. Go with it and chances are your brand makeover will be more successful than you ever imagined.

Image: Jenni, of course