Name every required input
List access credentials, source files, brand assets, content, data, legal approvals, stakeholder availability, and third-party contacts needed for delivery.
Assign an owner and due date to important inputs. Vague references to client cooperation are difficult to manage.
Choose the approval path
Identify the client decision-maker and the people who may review work. Require consolidated feedback and state the review window for each milestone.
If regulated or legal review is the client responsibility, say so directly and include the time in the plan.
Explain the effect of delay
State that late inputs move dependent dates and may require a new start window based on availability. Avoid guaranteeing the original deadline when its prerequisites are not met.
Use written status notes to record blocked work and the date needed to protect the schedule.