As an attorney for over 18 years and the last 16 being in Hollywood I’ve worked at big Studios and on 22 feature films. I know that approval delays usually means that whoever is the decision-maker either is too busy or doesn’t have all information. They need to make the decisions. I always try to send my redlines with my reasoning and alternative clauses in case they do not agree or want a certain outcome. I always offer to have a conversation with my client to walk him through questions because having a conversation is so much more helpful than pushing and reviewing red lines back-and-forth. Always make it easy for your clients to say yes to you by giving them cover emails where you asked them what you want approve on a numbered list.

To streamline contract approvals, it’s essential to create a transparent and efficient process. Start by defining roles and timelines, so everyone knows their part in moving things forward. Using a digital contract management tool can help immensely by giving stakeholders real-time access to the contract’s status, minimizing delays from back-and-forth emails. Additionally, involving key stakeholders early in the process allows us to address potential issues upfront, reducing the risk of last-minute roadblocks. Regularly reviewing the approval process and tracking metrics can help identify bottlenecks, enabling continuous improvement. This approach not only speeds up approvals but fosters a smoother, more collaborative workflow.

To streamline future contract approval and reduce delays, I implement a standardized review process that includes clear milestones and accountability at each step. Pre-negotiation, I set clear expectations with stakeholders on timelines and key terms. I also use templates for standard clauses, reducing back-and-forth on routine elements. Leveraging digital tools like contract management software improves tracking and transparency, ensuring all parties can access real-time updates. Periodic reviews of bottlenecks help refine the process, creating a more efficient pathway for quicker approvals in the future.

Create a 1-page project charter that all stakeholders must sign off on before engaging the company and suppliers. The charter should include: Objectives, Expected Savings, Resources needed, Team Members and all stakeholders, Milestones, Key Activities, Impact on other Projects, Scope, Deliverables, Benefits, and Risks

Consider the following strategies: 1. Comprehensive Contract Preparation: Use clear language and make use of standard clauses to expedite negotiations. 2. Setting Clear Expectations: Be clear in schedule for timely approvals and be a bit straight forward. 3. Identify Key Stakeholders: Understand the organizational hierarchy of your client and keep the concerned person in loop. 4. Technology tools: Utilise e-contract management tools and Collaborate in real-time to streamline revisions. 5. Legal Provisions and Compliance: Incorporate clauses addressing potential delays and ensure adherence to local laws. These are just basic rules but you may also consider adding follow up mechanism, cultural touch, tracking changes, etc

Over the years it always comes down to two things: communication and clarifications. Understanding the parameters of what delegations can be flowed down to allow contracts teams to communicate effectively and find the acceptable terms and conditions for the business- which is automatically tied to ensuring all items are clarified for better communication and finalizing. Bottlenecks seem to exist when no one has authority or clear ownership of their role and responsibilities. Communicating is always key to most situations and fixes a great deal of problems. As a consulting firm we balance all actions and customers needs with clear communications and clarity of the priorities!

Better stakeholder engagement. By ensuring the key individuals are kept informed throughout the entire process, the approval should be a formality rather than an entire education session from start to finish.

To streamline the contract approval process and reduce delays, consider below steps 1. Standardise Contracts 2. Define clear approval workflow 3. Set Approval Limits 4. Develop timeline for the process 5. Encourage collaboration and Communication 6. Train and align stakeholders By standardising documentation, clarifying responsibilities and using automation tools. By using above mentioned tools and techniques contract approval process becomes more efficient.

Contract bottlenecks can somtimes be a significant challenge, slowing down projects and affecting critical timelines. To navigate these effectively, clear communication and processes are required. One helpful strategy is implementing a collaborative approach where stakeholders are involved early in the review process. By establishing clear expectations, documenting management and version control, teams can streamline the approval process and reduce delays. Focusing on clarity with the contract language and aligning upfront with all parties on the terms can avoid misunderstandings later. Empowering teams with these strategies can make a real difference in delivering successful outcomes.