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How I Work

How I Work

 

Every project is different, but the process is consistent: clear scope, honest communication and work delivered on time that nails the brief. Here's what working together typically looks like.

 

Step 1: Scoping the project

 

We start with a conversation about what you need — your objectives, your audience, your timeline and any existing materials or background that will inform the work.

From there, I prepare a proposal that sets out the scope, deliverables, timeline and fee. This includes an agreed number of revision rounds, so there are no surprises later. Deadlines are set collaboratively and work in both directions: I meet mine, and I ask that you meet yours for supplying materials, approvals and feedback.

 

Step 2: Getting started

 

A deposit is required before work begins. For projects under $2,000, the full fee is invoiced upfront. For projects between $2,000 and $15,000, a 50% deposit is required with the balance payable on project completion. For projects over $15,000, the project will be broken into milestones and deliverables, with payments attached accordingly. Payment terms and any project-specific arrangements are set out in the proposal.

I'm often booked in advance, so the sooner you can confirm a project and supply a brief, the better placed we are to meet your timeline. Urgent turnarounds can sometimes be accommodated — get in touch to discuss.

 

Step 3: Drafts and revisions

 

Most projects follow a first draft, second draft and final draft structure. For grant applications, additional rounds are sometimes needed, particularly if the project scope or direction evolves during the process.

I use Track Changes for all revisions — it keeps feedback clear, consolidated and easy to action on both sides. It’s easier than separate amends, briefs and phone discussions.

 

Step 4: Your review

 

At the outset, we'll agree on how long you need to review each draft. A thorough review takes time, and the more carefully you engage with each draft, the stronger the final product is.

 

Step 5: Final payment

 

When the final draft is approved, I invoice the remaining balance with 7-day payment terms. Any project-specific terms around revisions, rush fees or additional scope are documented in the proposal from the outset.

 

Step 6: Final product

 

At the end of a project, I ask clients for a brief testimonial or Google review. It helps other organisations find the right support.

Swimming pool used for evidence-based health behaviours. Melissa Waine, based in Sydney, Australia, b writes high-quality evidence-based health, medical and scientific content.
Bottle of green medications. Melissa Waine provides AMR publication support that uses data from hospital medication usage
Pipette inserted into a test tube by a medical researcher whose grant is being supported by Melissa Waine.
Brain MRI scans on screen looked at by two healthcare professionals in scrubs who are being assisted by Melissa Waine to communicate their data.
Medical products used to prevent hospital-associated infections. Melissa Waine writes government reports and publications covering AMR surveillance of drug usage and appropriateness in Australian hospitals.
Brain MRI scan. Melissa Waine supports brain cancer researchers in communicating their research impact.
Beautiful Ocean

Melissa Waine provides health and medical communication services to clients in Australia and overseas.

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