FAQ

Each answer covers one narrow blocker and links to the workflow or worksheet that holds the full process.

If the problem spans several lifecycle stages, start with Freelance client workflow system: inquiry to final payment. If the question is about stack shape or where client work should live, use the lean stack blueprint or CRM versus project management comparison below.

Questions answered here

• FAQ: setting up a solo service workflow stack answers questions about tool order, stack size, and CRM-first versus PM-first operations.
• Reviewing and maintaining a solo service workflow system: FAQ addresses recurring friction after a workflow is already in use.
• FAQ: what should I do when a client goes silent during review? deals with a review request that has had no response.
• Client has not approved deliverables: what to do next is for a milestone that still lacks a clear approval or rejection.
• FAQ: what should I do when required client inputs are late or incomplete? handles missing access, assets, approvals, or decisions.
• FAQ: what counts as client approval before billing or the next stage starts? separates acknowledgment from an approval that satisfies the agreed workflow.
• Client not responding at project closeout: what to do applies when delivery, approval, and billing are handled but the closeout request goes unanswered.

Open one answer at a time. If several questions apply, diagnose the broader stage before acting on an isolated answer.

Use a broader guide for a broader decision

• For a client process that breaks in several places between inquiry and payment, use Freelance client workflow system: inquiry to final payment.
• For tool sprawl or an unclear stack shape, use Lean software stack blueprint for solo freelancers.
• For uncertainty about whether client operations belong in a CRM or project management tool, use CRM vs project management for client workflows.
• For an unclear workflow term, use the Glossary, then return to the affected stage.

Continue with the process that needs repair

• For intake and qualification, use How to build a client intake and qualification workflow.
• For milestone review and approval, use Milestone delivery workflow for solo service businesses.
• For billing triggers and payment follow-up, use Invoice and payment workflow setup.