Write down a list of projects in plain English. This will help you feel for the edges of the service so that you know what it does and doesn’t do. Always start with the legislation (sometimes planning practice follows myths that need to be busted). Research real applications, appeals and case law. Useful resources:
A good service and well designed content should be so intuitive that it isn’t ‘noticed’ by users. They can just do what they need to do. It fits their needs like a glove. It’s in the right place, at the right time. Some useful questions:
Loosely name the service (see ‘name your service’ pattern) and decide what it is, and what it isn’t going to to do. Also think about what it might do in the future, depending on user research.
Use the submission service template to start writing the service. Remember that it will always be a work in progress. Smart services adapt quickly to changes in legislation and case law. A loose checklist: