Kulture Konnect Blog

Finding the right graphic design studio can be like finding a needle in a haystack!

There are hundreds of graphic design studios out there wanting your business... How do you choose the right partner?

Even though ideas are still the foundation of any creative work, there are other factors that play key roles when establishing a valuable relationship between your company and a graphic design studio. Of course, simply deciding you need a design team doesn't mean that the search will be effortless. The first step towards the right direction will be to identify and understand your business' needs and audience's "wants". Being able to successfully convey this to your graphic design studio is crucial, since that is the foundation from where all ideas will be generated.  

So many options!

The selection process for a design partner can be pretty difficult. There are many options, from freelancers to small and large firms, and things can easily get overwhelming. Here is when the second step will kick in: define what kind of partner and relationship you're looking for. There are three main options to consider:

1. Freelancer: Although freelancers tend to be cheaper, sometimes they are not academically or professionally qualified to take on your project, and things can be beyond the scope of their abilities without you knowing it. So, if you decide to go this route, make sure you do your homework and have in mind that, when it comes to something as valuable as the your company, "cheaper" should never be the focus.
2. Large Design Studio: "Bigger" might give you a sense of stability. Their portfolio, staff size and resources available might be something that makes your jaw drop to the floor. They can offer other services besides design, such as radio, TV, social, etc. If, after you have identified your business needs you find this is what your business demands, great! However, if your strategy doesn't call for so many mediums, your focus should be on a small studio.
3. Small Graphic Design Studio: They may not have a sample of your specific need in your specific industry, however, they might have worked on similar projects with other clients, so ask for those examples. Small studios are more motivated to get and maintain your business, so you'll always get a more personal level of service and a staff that will be genuinely interested in your business and your project, ready to produce outstanding work. Finally, in comparison to a large firm, you'll end up paying less due to reduced overhead costs.

>>Download this FREE Checklist to help you find the perfect graphic design studio.

Ok, I'm ready!

Or so you think... Here are 3 tips to continue your search process:

1. Have in mind that, as we mentioned above, while you don't have to have all your brand and design strategies defined, you still need to identify what your business needs are and your audience's "wants." This will make it easy on you to filter what type of partner should associate with you; and it will make it easier for the design team to get to know your business.
2. If your concern is about price, be upfront about it... It's better for your new design team to know beforehand what budget they can work with.
3. Feel free to ask for references. There is no better marketing tool than word-of-mouth, and your new design team will be more than happy to provide you with references so current or past clients can attest to their talents and skills.