1 Assess Urgency

When you're faced with multiple design tasks, the first step is to evaluate the urgency of each project. Look at the deadlines and consider the consequences of not completing tasks on time. Prioritize the projects that have the nearest deadlines or those that are critical for other parts of the project to move forward. This doesn't mean that you should ignore the quality of your work, but rather that you should allocate your immediate attention to the tasks that require it most.

2 Client Priorities

Understanding your clients' priorities is essential in commercial design. Engage with your clients to determine which aspects of the project are most important to them. Some may prioritize a fast turnaround while others may value a particularly innovative design concept. By aligning your task prioritization with your clients' expectations, you can ensure that your efforts are concentrated on the areas that will have the most significant impact on client satisfaction.

3 Task Complexity

Some design tasks are more complex than others and require a greater investment of time and creative energy. Break down each task into smaller components and assess their complexity. Start with tasks that are complex and time-consuming, as they might require iterative processes and feedback loops. Tackling these first can prevent bottlenecks later on and provide a clearer timeline for completion of simpler tasks that may be dependent on the completion of the more complex ones.

5 Resource Availability

Consider the availability of resources, including software, hardware, and human assistance. Some tasks may require specific tools or collaboration with other team members. If those resources are only available at certain times or on a limited basis, prioritize those tasks to align with resource availability. This ensures that you're not left waiting for access to what you need, which could delay your progress on other projects.

6 Workflow Efficiency

Finally, think about workflow efficiency. Identify tasks that can be batched together for a more streamlined process. For example, if several tasks involve similar design elements or software applications, it might be more efficient to tackle them consecutively. This approach can save time by reducing the need to switch between different tools or mindsets, allowing you to maintain a focused and efficient workflow.