FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: HIRING BRAINSTORM INTERNATIONAL
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How do you charge for you services?
I charge an hourly rate based on the complexity of the project. After discussing your project with you, I will present you with a detailed proposal that highlights the important points that were brought up during our initial interview. There is no charge for a proposal. I will make suggestions on ways to accomplish your goals and hold down your cost. Once the proposal is authorized and a deposit is secured, I will begin the project.
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How much does a logo cost?
While many graphic designers cannot give you a definitive price, I have developed several logo packages to fit virtually any small business budget. To determine what package is best for you, I would recommend calling or emailing your request. There is no charge for proposals or discussing your project.
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How do you charge for a website?
To determine a price of your website, we go through a short interview to discover the type of website best suited for your needs. There is no charge for the interview. After we've discussed your website project, we will prepare a detailed proposal that addresses the key functions and goals for the site along with pricing and any additional charges that may occur.
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Do you do all your own design work?
Yes, I do all the graphic design work; whether it's print, broadcast, or online. That way nothing is lost in translation from you to a designer and all the creative has the same continuity and imagery.
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Can I trademark my logo?
Yes, we develop a unique identity that belongs to you and is "trademarkable". There are some legal requirement you must meet in order to complete the process. If you need assistance in acquiring a trademark, we have access to a small business attorney that can help you.
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How long does it take to design a website?
The type of website and the amount of information we have affects the length of time to design, develop, and test your website. When we go through the initial consultation, we will discuss the functionality of the site and content creation. Through this process, we can give you a better estimate on time. Request a proposal.
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What's involved in the design process?
It usually begins with a conversation to discuss your needs. What are you looking for; website, brochure, billboard, logo, etc. While the design process is similar in all of these products, the objectives can be different. If this is our first project, we start with a discovery session to identify your business image, your client's demographics, and any design ideas you have. I will usually make some suggestions and show samples for you to review.
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I do not live in your city, does that matter?
No, I have many clients in many cities across the country. I routinely discuss projects online, through email, and over the phone. I know that you want to be involved in the creative process and the progress of your project, so I have an online colaborative site that organizes my to-do's, files, events, and messages during your project to help you stay informed without interrupting your day. If you are concerned about working with someone you have not met, I can provide you with many references.
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Do you match other pricing?
My pricing is based on 20 years of experience in the business. When compared "apples to apples", my affiliates and clients tell me that my pricing is better than my competitors and that my work is superior. While I am sure there are individuals that will do things for less, I will see to it that you are satisfied with my work.
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Can you help with signs and banners?
Yes, I have many sources for both signs and banners. Or we can use someone in your community. I can either provide you with the artwork for your sign/banner or I can manage the entire process with the sign company or banner company. I provide you with a proposal for my design fees and then I will send you quotes received from venders. We discuss your best options and you are responsible for paying for the signs and banners directly to the vender. That way you only pay for the sign/banner without my involvement and markup. So you can save money and I will provide the camera ready art to the vender for you.
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How do you develop a logo?
We start with a discovery session. We discuss your business image, your clients, your products and/or services, and where you are located now and where you expect to be in the future. We look at competitors logos, your venders, and other national designs in similar industries. We discuss your likes and dislikes regarding existing designs and those you envison for you business. Depending on the package you select, based on budget, we create unique identities for us to review together and for you to review with your circle of influence. We make revisions and adjustements to different designs, each time getting closer to a final logo for you. Once the final logo decision is made, I export the final design to various digital formats that you own.
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Do I own my logo after you design it?
Yes, after the final logo is approved and I receive payment. You own the logo. You can trademark the design if you so choose. If you need assistance with trademark law, I have an attorney that can help.
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Do you give me my logo in some format that I can use on my own?
Yes, after the final logo is approved and I receive payment. I email you various formats of the final design so that you can incorporate it into your documents, printed material, internet, etc.