The traditional windows still exist, but now the order is less predictable. Amazon and Netflix now buy films directly. European streaming platforms are becoming bigger players in the American marketplace. Filmmakers may be offered advances for only some of their rights, leaving them free to exploit the rest as they choose. Take that advance and use it to plan a strategy that will more effectively target your audience: do some theatrical screenings, do some event screenings, hire a digital ad agency. Reach your direct audience in meaningful ways before the film goes wide on a major platform.
And what if you don’t get into a major festival and Jeff Bezos is not waiting at your door with a fistful of cash? Or no traditional distributor has a worthwhile offer? These days, filmmakers can sell their films directly to these platforms. Opportunities like Amazon Video Direct or companies like Giant Interactive, Distribber, or Quiver can get films to the digital platforms without you needing to go through a distributor. No longer a last resort, this new option can be a wonderful opportunity for filmmakers who want to control their own rights; particularly when paired with an effective and innovative strategy.
Which brings me to the final step.
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Good list! I think the "Knowing Your Audience" section is probably the most overlooked of the bunch, but could be the most important. If you don't know who the people are that will likely buy your film, then how could you possible market to them or find the right placements for your film to gain traction from those who are most interested?