Start with the project, not the program

The starting point

A project team can describe the planned work without knowing which program might apply. Start with location, applicant, scope, equipment, cost and timing.

Describe the actual investment

A useful scope names what will be purchased, replaced or built. Equipment specifications and a proposal are far more useful than a broad label such as “energy efficiency.”

Keep timing explicit

Record proposal dates, planned purchasing, construction and completion. Check timing conditions against the relevant program; never assume an investment remains eligible after a commitment.

Build a useful first brief

Identify the property, organization, purpose, major equipment, estimated budget, current stage and open questions. The Incentive Tower project-brief form is a good starting point.