At Silkjade we have a set time we like to complete a game. Currently we develop
simple games with a 1 month art time frame and a 2 month coding time frame.
Larger projects coming up this year will have a 3-4 month production time frame.
I feel you need to get to know what time frame your working with and stick to it.
We win at Silkjade by using our time wisely.

Main points

  • Estimate your time frame (and double it)
  • Map out a time table with a start date and a finish date
  • Set weekly goals you would like to achieve
  • Be realistic and gauge your skill level
Time
Resources
Skill
At Silkjade the Skill required for a project will affect the Budget. A lack of skill will
have to be hired to complete the tasks. Programming, art and music are the
areas that cost the most. Design and level design should be handled by the
company making the game. Also you can hire a designer but design is meant to
be the fun part (well for me it is). Get to understand all the skill that will be
required and what time these skilled workers will require to complete the project
(time,cash, %sales etc...).

On a simple project primary skill areas that need to be filled for production are

  • Design Document development
  • Level Design (Game balancing)
  • Programming
  • Art
  • Music
When we have a time table and we understand what skills we require to
complete a project, we can then write up the budget. Time is a resource, money
is a resource and skilled people are a resource. At Silkjade we have artwork on
tap as we have two highly skilled artist. However we have to hire skilled
programmers and skilled musicians.

Main points

  • Time is a resource (use it wisely as the clock always ticks)
  • Your skill and talent is a resource
  • If your company lacks resources seek it out.

At Silkjade we can hire skilled programmers, artist teams and game musicians
through RAC or GAC. We are also looking at other options to team up with
teams from around the world.

Rent a Coder: http://www.rentacoder.com
or Get a Coder: http://www.getacoder.com/

For 3D artwork, 2D artwork and images

Renderosity http://www.renderosity.com/
3Dmodelworks http://www.3dmodelworks.com
Daz3d http://www.daz3d.com/
Istockphotto http://www.istockphoto.com