The ideal way to work with me is to have a project description, timeline, relative budget, and when applicable, what data will be or are collected by someone else. I then create a project plan based on these items to explain what I would do when, the estimated time/cost, and what each activity will inform. Typically, this isn't a final product so the project lead(s) and I iterate a few times to make sure we're both satisfied.

Reaching out earlier is typically better so that we have sufficient time to discuss.

Reaching out early to gauge interest is a good idea for everyone; I may not have the bandwidth to take on another project or the project needs may be out of my skillset but I may know someone who might be interested.

Planning early helps avoid stress on everyone. If I agree to work on the evaluation for your grant, I like to have at least a month to draft a plan; more time is always nice especially for some of the larger grant programs (e.g., NSF IUSE) because I sometimes am working on multiple evaluation plans.

This is assuming that the project leadership has a good idea of activities, relative number of people involved, and budget for evaluation. I'm more likely to meet your expectations if there is clarity in the beginning. Having at least a month provides time for me to read over the materials, ask questions, and to iterate on any plans. It may not take an entire month to end up with an evaluation plan that everyone is happy with, but having some time to make decisions and to not rush is always welcome.

For all my work, I like to stay in reasonable contact with others. Not too often but not too infrequent. I believe our best work happens when we truly collaborate and are kept up-to-date on activities.

There are sometimes potential pitfalls that are best addressed sooner than later, as well as promising ventures that are time-sensitive. Creating a plan for sufficient communication (e.g., monthly meetings) is typically a good choice.

Very few if any endeavors run perfectly on time. Life happens! Changes to the work plan are expected. Those will need to be discussed and agreed upon with me, however.

Yes, I am! I do enjoy traveling for work. Any travel, however, does need to be planned for and included in any budgets.

Flexibility is appreciated, as I do travel fairly often for work.

Yes, several research or evaluation efforts have been short (~1 month).

I have sometimes given feedback on training materials or other documents.

It depends on your flexibility with due dates and the complexity of the work. My schedule is quite variable, so some periods will next to impossible to find time for even small efforts. Sometimes, short-term projects can work especially if there aren't constraints (e.g., I need to travel on particular dates)

It doesn't hurt to reach out if you're not pressed for time.

Depending on what it is and what I've already committed to, I may say yes. I've participated in professional service or volunteering since I was a high school student; it is very much part of my life. I still do unpaid service as I find it useful and rewarding.

I sometimes do turn down opportunities as I may not feel that I'm the right fit, I don't have the bandwidth, or I have other reasons.

It never hurts to ask. Information regarding time commitment and expectations is always useful so that I can make a decision.

Just ask! I may be interested, but first I want to ensure that my skills and experiences match your expectations and your endeavor's needs.

Oftentimes, I get to apply different skills and experiences to contexts I haven't worked in before. I think a good collaboration is similar to a puzzle; each person plays an important and unique role. For example, I know how to do external evaluation but I might not know your department. You know your department well, but you have little experience with external evaluation. Both sets of knowledge are important to ensure the work is relevant and done well.