Approach a designer professionally.

This article is designed to provide an insight for businesses on how to get the most out of your next prospective design project by approaching a selected designer correctly.

Through my experience as a designer I have come across businesses of all statures that tend to underrate and insult the design profession by pursuing a project half heartedly. This is usually done through a selection of attitudes and practices but in my business world I generally regard it as un-professional.

Commonly, businesses are trying to get the absolute most from their budget and save every penny. I understand the reason’s why but remember that you get as much out of something as you put into it. In order to achieve a successful result from a design project you have to spend at least a little money (it will pay off) and just as importantly, be prepared. I have been approached by many potential customers who want the world but are unwilling to pay for it, secondly they do not realise the time, effort, budget and thought it takes on their behalf to gain a successful result.

With these steps your chances of finding a good designer and ending in a successful result will increase.

Step 1. – Get organised.

You know your business better then anyone else. You know what stage you are at, whether you are going to launch soon, have already launched or are an established service, you know what is needed. Before approaching a designer ask yourself:

- What exactly do I want?

- What do I need?

- What is missing?

- What do I want to achieve?

The answers have now given a base as to why you are approaching a designer and specifically what to enquire. These questions may be common sense but a task which I have found commonly ignored by potential customers.

If you cannot answer these questions, don’t worry, realise that you are in a position where professional advice is needed and be honest. As well as being creative, designers are very good business people, able to guide you and fill in gaps where needed. They are happy to help as long as you are honest and open.

Step 2 – Budget

Now that you have at least a rough idea of what you want, work up a budget. It does not have to be thousands just a realistic number that YOU can afford and will be comfortable to spend. If the designer can’t give you everything you want from your budget they will either:

- Advise on the next best option

- Provide a realistic quote on how much you need to spend.

Remember that any bespoke project will likely cost more (possibly doubling the price) so if you have a tight budget keep it simple.

Step 3 – Selecting your potential designer

Choosing a designer can be daunting. For example, prices for logo design can vary from £10 – £10, 000. Prices vary enormously according to the designer/company and the level of service they provide. Instead of price, focus on the level of service you want. This should match the price range you will have to spend for the desired results.

When selecting a designer do some research? Ask around, check their portfolio and see whose work you like. You may feel comfortable to work with one through a referral.

Step 4 – Approach the designer

Designers work in different ways, so the initial protocol varies from designer to designer but just be prepared with your brief at hand in return for a quote.

If you don’t know what you are looking for, be honest and tell them. They will ask a series of questions to find out what you need and the services they can provide. At the end of the day you always have the right to say “No,” if you are not comfortable with the situation.

If your designer asks, tell them your budget, they won’t con you, just provide the best possible options at that price range whatever your budget may be. Revealing your budget will certainly speed up the process and save you money in the long run.

Step 5- Legalities, payments and preparation.

Once you have decided on a designer be prepared to ensure the project goes smoothly.

1.) Make sure the project is regulated with a contract which covers both parties to solve any disputes that may arise, document deadlines, payments and usage rights.

2.) Be prepared for your own project start date making sure the designer has everything that is requested from you i.e. copy, spec, details, photos, materials. Also be prepared for your own deadline providing a timely response to sign offs and alterations.

3.) Pay on time according to the terms and conditions set in the contract.

Although quite general, these steps at the very least will provide a structured course of action for handling a design project, lead to a successful result and a good relationship with your designer.