About this template
A consulting project brief is the foundation of a successful engagement. It defines what you're solving, why it matters to the client, and how success will be measured—before any work begins.
Use this template at kickoff to align stakeholders, clarify expectations, and create a reference document everyone can return to when priorities shift.
What's inside
- Client context: company background, industry, and current situation
- Problem statement: what challenge the engagement addresses
- Objectives: what success looks like for the client
- Scope: what's in, what's out, and key assumptions
- Deliverables: concrete outputs with owners and timelines
- Success criteria: how you'll measure impact
- Stakeholders: decision makers, approvers, and key contacts
- Timeline & milestones: key dates and checkpoints
Who it's for
Independent consultants, consulting firms, freelancers, and agencies who need a clear, professional way to document engagement scope before work starts.
How to use it (best practices)
- Start with the problem: write it in the client's words—don't jump to solutions.
- Define success upfront: vague goals lead to vague outcomes.
- Be explicit about scope boundaries: "Out of scope" prevents 80% of conflicts.
- Get sign-off before starting: the brief is a commitment, not just documentation.
- Revisit when scope changes: update the brief and re-align, don't let it drift.
Looking for a Notion / Google Docs / Word consulting brief template?
If you searched for a consulting project brief template for Notion (or Google Docs / Word), this structure works anywhere: copy the sections and adapt them to your tool. If you want something faster to fill and easier to share with clients, you can also use this template instantly in Ununu.
FAQ
What is a consulting project brief?
A document that defines the engagement: problem, objectives, scope, deliverables, and success criteria—created before work begins to align expectations.
How long should a project brief be?
Short enough that stakeholders will actually read it. One to three pages is typical—focus on decisions, not background.
Should the client sign off on the brief?
Yes. Treat it as a shared commitment. Review it together, get explicit agreement, and reference it when scope questions arise.