JUST STARTING TO SPRINKLE?

If you’re new to working with me, here’s the process I typically use and some other information you’ll find useful:

1. DISCOVERY

The first thing I’ll do is ask questions about your project so I can understand your needs. We’ll determine the goals and objectives for the project, the audience, any specific requirements and more. By starting with WHY rather than WHAT, I’ll be able to develop custom solutions that solve real problems.

2. ESTIMATE

I’ll outline the project’s details and pricing, which is valid for 30 days and often include a starting date and timeline. My fees are based on VALUE, rather than hours, which  guarantees the best possible outcome and helps us avoid the pitfalls of minutiae.

3. CONTRACT & DEPOSIT

Once we agree on price, we’ll sign a contract and I’ll invoice you for the deposit. The contract is designed to protect you, me and the work; the deposit secures your place at the table. Work begins when the deposit clears.

4. PROJECT BRIEF

The strategic brief clearly and concisely outlines crucial information and lays the foundation for the rest of the project. It sets up the bigger picture of everything that needs done and helps the project stay on track. The client always signs off on the brief before any work begins.

5. DESIGN PROCESS

The design process varies from project to project, but always includes a certain amount of strategic thought, research, testing and developing. A quality-over-quantity approach ensures that your project will get the right amount of attention throughout the entire process and drafts will be made available for you to review at various stages.

6. DELIVERY

When the project is complete, I’ll ask you for one final approval and then you’ll be invoiced for the remaining amount. Websites will go live and final print or design files will be released as soon as payment clears.

7. EVALUATION

To make sure that the finished products meet your expectations, I’ll follow up with you to assess the various outcomes, results, insights and feedback you have received after a reasonable amount of time.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS:

SCHEDULE

A predetermined schedule will help keep your project on track. It will include all the necessary checkpoints and deadlines.  Schedules can vary depending on the complexity of the project, and the number of projects in queue. I often include an estimated turn time in the initial proposal or estimate. 

A logo project schedule might look like this:

CONTRACT LABOR

I may bring in other partners to help us achieve your goals, but as your Creative Director, I will make sure each and every detail meets my standard of excellence before you see it.

RUSH FEES

Sometimes you need something fast, and that’s okay. I’m happy to help, but accelerated timelines come with increased pricing structures.

DEPOSITS

A deposit guarantees our joint commitment to the project, secures your project’s place on the calendar, and ensures that it will be delivered on time. Deposits are usually 1/3 or 1/2 of the project’s total.

RETAINER & PRE-PAY AGREEMENTS

These options can provide you with a monthly allowance of hours and gives your projects priority. Agreements can be negotiated based on budget and volume of work anticipated over time, usually 6 months to a year.

TAXES

I like to keep my books squeaky clean! Sometimes invoices will include sales tax for certain taxable items. For income tax, I will gladly supply you with my W9 tax form so that you can give me a 1099 at the end of the year.

REMEMBER:

READY TO MAKE IT RAIN?

LET'S GO!