My Process
Developing a brand for your company, shouldn’t be a difficult task. Yet I see so many having trouble getting the look (and communication) they are trying to accomplish. I have implemented a new system for my clients, that allows them to be right in the middle of project. This system enables you, the client, to add and update your own projects, send direct messages, and maintain your invoices, all in one spot.
Let me show you…
The Dashboard is layed out very simply, with 4 main areas:
- Dashboard (Quick Navigation),
- Projects (View & Check the Status of Current Projects & Add New Projects)
- Billing (View/Pay Invoices & Approve/Reject Estimates)
- Updates (Stay up-to-date with new products and services, and keep in direct communication)
Projects
Adding a project is pretty self-explanitory. Just click the “Add Projects” and your on your way. (You’ll notice ‘Quote/Estimate’ listed under ‘Type’, this is where you can ‘Request a Quote’ on any type of project.)
So many clients in the beginning asked “So how many designs to I get?” I believe in building an image, so my process may differ from most.
In a Logo Design, for example, I like to start with one design. Usually the inspiration comes from what the client doesn’t like, more that what they do. Starting with just one design, the client can give better feedback, rather than have to focus on 5 or 6 different designs at once. If I’m way off base with the concept, we just start again. It’s very rare I get to 4, but I limit the rate to just 4 concepts. Again, I believe in building an image/brand.
Deposits & Payments
I try and keep everything simple. I require a 50% initial deposit on all design and web, prior to the start of the project. 100% payment is required prior to start of any printing project.
The billing portion of this system is very helpful. After an estimate is approved, and converted to an invoice, you can simply click the “Pay Deposit” button next to the listed invoice. After the project is completed, the remaining balance must be paid before any working art files are released. 
Now thats out of the way, let’s get creative!