This post, “” is a follow-up post to tip # 37 in our article, “101 Graphic Design Tips for Business Success”. Please be sure to subscribe to that list if you haven’t seen it already.

Present Your Concepts In Smaller Groups

Set your expectations up front with the client, on the number of concepts and revisions you’ll do. These specifics should be covered in your contract. Always create more than once concept, but be mindful not to create too many as this may overload the client and hinder timely, focused revisions. If you need to create a large number of concepts, consider presenting them separately in smaller groups, so your client doesn’t have to decipher what designs they like best among an ocean of ideas.

When determining how many concepts you will be doing on a project, think about equating these steps according to how much you will be charging your client. The more concepts you create for a client, the more you should charge. It may be beneficial to you to create a variety of design packages you can offer. Just make sure your package pricing corresponds with the time and creative energy you will be putting in to the design.

Additional Revisions = Additional Payment

After you have established how many design concepts you will create for your client, make sure they are also aware of how many rounds of revisions you will be doing. This will help protect you from getting taken advantage of, and will also give the client a way to determine the finality of the project. If your client insists on additional revisions, insist on additional payment.

If you’re doing a contest, you might want to consider doing the same, and submit a certain number of concepts and revisions. Your time is valuable and even if you feel you have a shot at winning, someone else may come out on top.
Addressing these specifics with your client up front will prevent the possibility of having to endure a frustrating cycle of unlimited concepts and revisions. It will also ensure that your client is not only getting a great design, but is also getting that design in a timely manner. Time is money not only for you, but also for your client.