Coforma's new project intake framework In an effort to standardize the work we do, we developed a framework that tells us whether we are engaging with high-quality partners and projects. The framework not only fosters transparency, but also ensures that we do not stray from our goals, vision, and mission.

Note: Updates pending

Step 1: Intake framework

Section 1: Business information

• Business name:
• Date of inquiry:
• Description:
• Services required:
• Estimated start date:
• Engagement length:
• Contact name:
• Contact email address:
• Contact phone number:
• Website:
• Notes or background:

Section 2: Deal breakers / Mitigation

Is the client involved with any of the following organizations? [Respond for each (Yes / No / Unsure / Comment)]

• Police forces

• Weapons manufacturers

• Disinformation organizations

• Extremist organizations

• Anyone on SPLC’s list

• Civil, social and human rights violations / practices

  • If their negative impact is indirect... Does our project improve their practices?

• Environmental shit like plastic

  • If their negative impact is indirect… Does our project improve their practices?

Section 3: Mission orientation

Does the potential partner consider human-centered design as part of their technology goals/needs?

• [Yes / No / Unsure / Comment]

What population is served by the design or brand?

• Answer:

Is the design inclusive?

• [Yes / No / Unsure / Comment]

Can we add value to make it more inclusive?

• [Yes / No / Comment]

Do we have any control over the final delivery? What are the risks?

• [Yes / No / Comment]

Section 4: Partnership alignment

Requires a total of 28 points out of 39 points for a successful intake

• Organization type [Check one]

  • State (2)
  • Local (3)
  • Federal? (1)
  • Non-Profit? (3)
  • Foundation? (3)
  • Private? (2)

• Values (X/8) [Check all that apply]

  • Mission oriented? (3)
  • Socially impactful? (2)
  • Environmentally impactful? (2)
  • Innovative (1)

• Capabilities (X/11) [Check all that apply]

  • Client believes Coforma fills an expertise gap? (3)
  • Client wants to invest in building an internal team? (3)
  • Client has a dedicated team to work with us? (3)
  • Client is able to provide access to all stakeholders? (2)

• Working Style (X/12) [Check all that apply]

  • Flexible with deliverables, trusting? (3)
  • Collaborative? (3)
  • Client is comfortable with remote work? (3)
  • Client requires minimal travel? (Does not include travel for research) (3)

• Communication (X/5) [Check all that apply]

  • Transparent? (3)
  • Consistent? (2)

Alignment score: X/39

Section 5: Project information

Can we meet this timeline?

• [Yes / No / Comment]

Do we have access to resources to complete this project?

• [Yes / No / Comment]

Does the project have likelihood to grow/change drastically? (Scope creep = bad // Additional projects = good.)

• [Yes / No / Comment]

Step 2: Review and approval

[100% of directors and up]

Does the team agree the client is a good match?

• [Yes, No]

Are there any reasons we would say no, even if it passes the intake framework? (e.g., previous bad experience with people on the team.)