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  Choosing a design agency

  With so many creative options out there from freelancers to agencies, it’s hard to know where to start! If you are considering looking for a design agency then you are probably already one of the following:

  •   You need new communications designed with set objectives

  •   You are a new company on the scene that needs to make an impact

  •   You have existing communications and messages which you would like to improve

  •   You have a new or improved service that you would like to launch or relaunch

  The search for a creative option or agency can often be a daunting one. Having worked in an agency and also in an in-house marketing department I’ve been in both camps needing to find an agency and also an agency needing to be found. With that in mind here is my quick guide for what I think is important to look for:

  1.  Proven track record. The more a design company understands about your sector and type of business the more they should be able to deliver a relevant design solution. A designer should understand your objectives and challenges and having a previous insight into your sector will certainly help them deliver appropriately to your target audience. Ask an agency or designer for case studies.

  2.  People like people. A design project may only last a day or it may take a good few weeks or months. Make sure you feel comfortable with the designer or team. The relationship should be a partnership and the fit should be right. Creatives are often not as smartly dressed as most but they should still be professional in their processes. Overall they should inspire you and confirm that your project is in safe hands.

  3.  A good brief. Questions, questions, questions! You may have a brief already or you may not. A good design agency can help you with the brief. They should certainly ask a lot of questions and then put a plan together that outlines your project and work with you to help get it right before starting. Your marketing and communications need a strong strategy in terms of approach, timescale and budget. Ask them for a summary and make sure these meet your objectives.

  4.  Banish jargon. Quite often jargon can become a hinderance – especially when it comes to the web or print terminology. It’s really important that you understand what your agency or designer is talking about. Are you comfortable with the language that is being used? If you are confused – it’s not your fault, it’s theirs. Ask them to explain themselves more clearly so you are both clear on your overall strategy.

  5.  Balance. A good design company should be able to effortlessly balance strong impactful design while adhering to set guidelines that may be in place. These may be corporate guidelines, or accessibility guidelines such as RNIB. This should be a welcomed challenge for them. Ask what other work they have produced that balance these elements.

  Get in touch to see how we fit your criteria.

  Posted by admin22 on 23rd October 2010

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