If you're planning a large product launch on a specific date, be sure to allow adequate time for everything involved in putting together a new product. From graphics to overall packaging decisions to lining up affiliates to setting up your ordering mechanisms, there's a lot involved in successfully launching a new product.

I don't know how many times clients have come to our company, Speaker Fulfillment Services, just days prior to their intended launch date, and they're still editing audios or videos, don't have any graphics created yet, and any number of other things that make it more difficult to meet a desired launch date successfully.

Here's a simple Product Launch Checklist that can help you plan better and increase your chances for a successful new product launch.

More than 2 Months Pre-Launch

Create the content — record audio(s) and/or videos, write manual

Determine what the product components will be — DVDs, Audio CDs, Data CDs, manuals, downloads, etc.

If CDs or DVDs are included in the product, determine what packaging you want to use (individual DVD style cases, plastic sleeves in two or three-ring albums, paper sleeves, plastic sleeves included in print binder, jewel cases, other)

If print components are to be included, decide on desired binding method (saddle stitched, three-ring binder(s) including size, spiral binding, comb binding, or perfect binding)

Determine if tabs are to be included in printed component

Determine if any components are to be shrink-wrapped

Determine if printed components are to be printed single-sided or double-sided

Determine if printed components are to be printed only in black or whether full color will be used.

Determine if product will have any bonus items (physical and/or download)

Get pricing from your fulfillment company

Begin lining up your affiliate and joint venture partners

Minimum of 8 Weeks Prior to Launch

If transcripts are to be included, get audio transcribed

Get artwork developed for all printed pieces (CD labels, CD/DVD packaging, binders, etc.) — if necessary, request specs from your fulfillment company

Proof all artwork

Determine desired audio format for final product (.wav or MP3 files)

Inform your fulfillment house of launch date and the quantity to be produced

Develop a product assembly document for your fulfillment company

Provide your fulfillment company with a primary and back up contact to reach if there are any questions about the product

Continue work on affiliate and joint venture partners

Begin development of your affiliate tools including pre-written classified ads, articles, banners, etc.

Minimum of 6 Weeks Prior to Launch

Format transcripts into final "print" version (PDF or Word document)

Proofread your transcripts and other written documents

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