Just because a design project can follow any path, it doesn’t mean it should. While it is always possible to double back and revisit earlier decisions (and some times this is essential) – a less formal approach would be more about luck than skill when it comes to meeting targets.
If a process takes longer it will also cost more. Because of this, and our belief in offering value for money, a 7-stage process was implemented by Dispirito (see below) and has been designed to deliver creative, effective jobs on time and within budget.The Dispirito 7 stage process:
Stage 1: The Brief
The brief is always the starting point for each project. It is a vital part of the design process as it is the foundation upon which all the designs will be built. It will also ensure a more accurate estimate of costs can be provided to you at the outset.
We would always recommend, even if you already have a brief, that you complete our briefing form (download this from the website), as this ensures we obtain all the relevant information.
Stage 2: The Estimate
The estimate will detail all the elements required to deliver your project as outlined in your brief. Design, artwork, photography, illustration, copywriting, printing and delivery (as required) will be itemised for your approval.
Project timescales will be outlined in the estimate. Depending on the project this can be a rough guide to how long things will take, or a fully itemised schedule to ensure key target dates are met.
Full details of our terms and conditions are supplied with every estimate and are also available on our website.
Return to us a signed and dated copy of the estimate to book your project in.
Stage 3: First Designs
First designs get underway.
Depending on the project first designs can be supplied electronically or at a presentation/development meeting.
We would always suggest you allow sufficient time at this stage to review the designs before feeding back your formal comments.
We are happy to have verbal discussions about the designs, but request that the final feedback is submitted in writing. This ensures everyone is clear about what has been agreed.
Stage 4: Progression
While it would always be our aim to get as close to your requirements with the first designs as possible, it is to be expected that some additional changes might be necessary.
There is no fixed process at this stage. Your feedback on the first designs will dictate what happens next. Small changes to fonts, colour and images can make a big difference. Sometimes elements from different designs are merged, or one particular design explored further.
We like to put our clients in charge of how their budgets are spent so two stages of client revisions are included in each estimate, with further stages of revisions available if required.
Stage 5: Artwork
Once clients have approved the designs, files will be art-worked to produce print-ready digital files.
If the project is a website, it would be at this stage that the site starts to be built to match the approved designs.
Stage 6: Printing
Once we have supplied the digital artwork to our printer, and confirmed the paper type and quantity, a final proof will be produced.
A print proofing form will be supplied with the proof. This represents the final opportunity to check all content prior to printing commencing. Return a signed and dated copy of this to us, to authorise your job to be printed.
We will monitor progress and keep you informed about the delivery date of your job.
Stage 7: Payment
Payment is requested at the end of a project – either when the artwork is supplied, or when the printed matter is delivered.
Some projects will be subject to proforma or stage payments, which would be outlined, in the original estimate.
Credit terms are discussed on a client-to-client basis.
We accept payment by company cheque or bank transfer.
Title of goods will transfer once payment has been received.
Full details of our terms and conditions are supplied with every estimate, and are also available on our website.