The design process can vary depending on the type of project. Generally speaking, once all the pertinent info has been gathered, contract signed and deposit received, approximately 2 to 3 initial rough comps are created based on the style and parameters of the project estimate. One design concept is chosen by the client and further developed by the designer. As the chosen design is refined, project proofs are presented to review and or submit changes. All project proofs are provided via email in a .pdf or .jpeg format. (these are Low Resolution files for proofing purposes ONLY).

Generally, 3 rounds of design changes* are included/built into the initial project estimate. If more changes are requested beyond the inclusive 3 rounds, then surcharges will apply. The additional fees will vary depending on the extent of changes requested. The fees will be on top of the original project estimate, need to be approved by the client and billed accordingly.

*Unlimited changes are not offered as they are not time or cost effective and ultimately cause more confusion than clarity.

The design is then finalized and delivered in the necessary file formats depending if this is a print project (high resolution files) or formats for the web. Final payment and or balance due is required at this time in order for the project to be delivered.

Time frames can vary depending on which projects are currently in the queue as well as the scope and or complexity of a new project. Once a deposit has cleared, the design drafts begin. Since the initial concepting process is the most labor intensive, the turn around time can vary and can take up to two weeks to show the first design concepts.

There is an open line of communication with the client at all times (mainly via email). It is imperative that the client provide all of the necessary content including text, photos & images, logos in a timely manner to ensure the project flow.

Failure to provide this vital info can stall the project and delay the completion date at no fault of the designer.

After the initial comp phase, a project moves more quickly — provided that all essential and necessary elements have been submitted by the client.

Project pricing can vary greatly and is determined at the time of estimate. All projects are executed on a contract basis. A contract helps to align the work relationship right from the start and helps define the scope and payment terms.

There is a 50% non-refundable deposit to begin a project. It MUST be obtained at the time of the signing of the contract and before any work will commence. This secures a space in the queue as well as reflecting a client’s commitment to the project. Depending on the size of the project, there may be a mid-project payment necessary of 25% with the final 25% due IN FULL at the completion/deliverable of a project.

For smaller projects with an established client, payment is due IN FULL within 7 days of invoicing or late fees may also apply.

Print design projects such as brochures, business cards etc DO NOT include actual printing costs.
If you require bids for your print design projects, they may be obtained upon request.

Payment options are prefer either via Venmo or Transferwise invoicing.
While I do not directly accept Credit Cards, you can however use a CC via Venmo or Transferwise.

ASAP = rush charges and can vary depending on the urgency of the project but average from 50% up to 200%. Under a 3 day turnaround starts at a 50% rush charge and goes up from there. Much like FedX, 2 Day Air or Urgent Care, it’s like expedited design at a premium. Needing to bump someone else’s project or burning the midnight oil for your project deadline means you gotta pay a bit extra. One needs to understand the difference between a “Nice to Have” or an “Urgent” – Mission Critical project.

Cancellation or Kill fees may apply if a job gets cancelled midway through production and it is appropriate to compensate the me for the work I have completed thus far. This is generally referred to as a “kill fee”, and commonly is paid in a percentage of either 50% if pre production work has been done, or 100% if the project is in production or completed.

It’s important to benchmark the current state of your brand in order to track its shift and the return on your investment.  Research gives you the ability to monitor quantitative and qualitative results and provides a foundation for your decisions. It removes personal bias and places the focus on real data about your company’s position in the marketplace. The credibility of two hundred responses from employees, clients and customers can help overcome dissenting opinions among the management team. It becomes a catalyst for organizational change.

The discovery phase also accelerates the change management process by building stakeholder engagement and alignment. As you solicit feedback and conduct outreach to key internal stakeholders, clients, and vendors, they begin to take ownership of their stake in your company’s evolution and become champions for your brand.

Project designs are single-use (one time usage rights apply) unless otherwise specified within the terms of the project contract. Any other usage of said materials/designs must be negotiated and authorized at an additional fee to be determined.

I retains personal rights to use the completed project and any preliminary designs for the purpose of marketing my studio’s business and addition to my portfolio, for educational purposes and/or future publications on design.

Please Note: All reproduction rights on the Copyrighted original artwork/designs created are retained by Design with Eric. The artwork/designs may not be reproduced in any form without written consent and authorization. Design with Eric retains all original native source files and are the property of this studio. Requested release of said source files is subject to additional fees and costs to be determined.

Yes. A retainer fee works like a monthly fee but since its purpose is to retain me as your designer, it is paid up front before any work is ordered. You are, in a sense, pre-ordering the my time. I anticipate work from the client and block out the appropriate amount of time in my schedule to accommodate the work.