definitely you need a script. (i cant use maya unless i know what im going to do before i turn it on.) then you need the drawings (storyboard). then you need an animatic (look that up on google).., you can 'pop' the animation so the timing is correct.., that is all keys are flat and the animation will 'jump' from one key to the next rather than the usual linear fashion, 'popping' the animation will give you an idea of the timing. you could always try and silhouette it to see if it has strong composition.

you need patience and time, a good schedule would not go astray, and try and stick to it.., be realistic.

M