We totally get it. Choosing a design company is tough!
Choosing a design company is a big decision (and often, a long-term one). So, what advice would we give you?
Here’s a little checklist, to give you a helping hand. Hope it’s useful!
Do they have experience?
This is not necessarily experience in your ‘industry’ but experience working with businesses similar to your size and stage and with similar goals to yourselves. Can they give examples of clients they have worked with long-term? Do they sound knowledgeable and have contacts within the industry? Do they answer your questions and do they bring things up that you hadn’t thought of, or forgot about? These are all indications that they know what they are doing and that you would be in safe hands.
Are they credible?
Their experience of course forms a big part of their credibility, but when you are choosing a design company it is essential to do your research. Their reviews will form a big chunk of this research. Google Reviews are the best place to start, then of course their are review platforms like Trust Pilot and of course, Facebook. Look for common themes. If lots of people are saying the same thing this is an excellent sign. You are also looking for a balanced approach. So not just all about the design, but their business acumen too.
Are they transparent?
You can tell a lot from a design agency’s transparency by their payment structure and how much information they are willing to give to you before you get to the deposit stage. How much do they want you to pay and when? The other big factor in choosing a design company is ownership. You will always own your branding and website and artwork if you are working with a reputable person/company. Always ask this question before making your decision (especially with larger, more ‘corporate’ style companies).
What is their service range?
Some design companies are very specialist. So, they focus on branding, or web, or marketing, which of course has its benefits. The downside is that you then have to fill the gaps with additional people and designers to ensure your business has the full design service. This can be more time-consuming, and more expensive. It really depends on your goals; so it might be that you do want a specialist in one one area. It’s just so important to find out what their full offer is so you can factor that into your decision.
Do you connect with them?
When you are choosing a design company, it might sound a bit ‘wishy-washy’, but our top advice tip is; ‘Do you like their vibe?’ That means their work, them, their offices, their style. Can you see yourself working with them? Do you feel like they ‘get’ you? In all honestly, we think this is the biggest factor. Simple ways to see how to connect with them is to get in touch – call them, email them, pop in. How they respond will tell you so much. Shared values make such a difference and design is so subjective, you need to feel comfortable and connected.
If you are between design companies, we hope this gives you some guidelines to make that crucial decision.
We, of course, hope that we are one of the two! But most importantly, we hope you find the right design partner, because we know what a difference it can make.
If you have any questions, or need any more advice, email at hello@adventuregraphics, or call us on 0121 354 1010.
