PROCESS
The success of 4000+ client deliverables over the past 20 years is a direct result of a tried-and-true process. Below is a step-by-step overview of the standard Spin350 process.
Every new project starts with a meeting with the key decision makers either in person or over the phone. This discovery meeting ensures that everyone is on the same page with the goals and objectives. With a solid project brief and clear objectives, projects run smoother and result in better design concepts. It is also in this meeting that we establish project milestones and deadlines so that nothing is missed and there are no surprises on either side.
Once the full project specs and objectives are established, it is at this point, that I start gathering research, brand assets and project specs. Each project is different but some examples could include at a high level: For a branding project, I would research other companies in your space to see what your competition looks like, take notes on what works and what doesn’t, gather inspiration graphics from your industry and beyond, organize existing brand assets if they exist, etc. For a web project, I’d be looking at sites that you like and don’t like, organizing your existing content if you have a current site, pulling images and assets, etc. For a print project, I would be getting print specs and quotes from my preferred vendor, setting up the design files and style sheets, etc.
This is the most fun part of the process. Putting pen to paper (and pixel to screen). In the sketching and concept phase, I am taking everything from the creative brief and research phase and digging into concept design. This is where the bulk of the work is done and therefore, it usually takes the biggest chunk of time. If it’s a branding project, I’m developing logo concepts, looking at fonts and color pallets. If it’s a web project, I’m putting together wireframes (similar to architect blueprints) that will show where things will go and how they will look and function. If it’s a print project, for example a brochure, I’m designing a cover and inside spread to paint the picture of what the overall creative direction will look like.
This is when I revise the concepts based on your feedback. At the same time, it is also where I will guide you to the best solution with push and pull based on your discovery and what “works” for your audience. It is also here where design theory and “good design” rules. Every scope will have the amount of revision rounds built it, but depending on the project parameters, there is flexibility (within reason) on this. My #1 job is to get you a finished product that meets your marketing goals while at the same time follows the rules of “good design”. And all at the same time staying on timeline and budget.
You have approved everything and you are almost there! If it’s a branding project, I send you your logos and assets in all of the industry standard formats. If it’s a print project and you’re using my preferred vendor, I set up the files for press and work hand in hand with them thru the press check, proofing and delivery to your destination. If it’s a website, we push the site live and do industry standard quality assurance. What is reassuring to my clients is that once you get past this stage, we are still here. If you need us, just call. If you want your files, they are yours. Once you’ve paid your final invoice, you own everything that we’ve sent you. Unlike some designers, we don’t, nor would we ever charge an additional fee for your IP and files. You own it.