choosing a designer or studio
When selecting a designer or firm, consider what you will get in return—the value of the work and the purpose it will serve. In addition to obtaining an estimate from a potential designer/firm,
- review their portfolio. Most have them readily available online. Do they have repeat clients? Do they seem to have the expertise you are looking for?;
- ask about their creative process;
- gauge how responsive they are via phone or e-mail; and
- don't be afraid to ask for references. You don't want to wind up spending money on unforeseen expenses—or incurring additional time—as a result of a designer/firm's inexperience, mistakes or inattention to deadlines.
When looking at estimates, consider not only the value that the designer/firm brings to the table but your printing budget as well. An experienced designer/firm may cost a little more than another but could save you money in other areas, such as printing.