What to Expect When You Start a Project With Us
Graphic design is shrouded in mystery, isn’t it? Just think about the industry jargon. Ever heard of a pica? Sure, you can adjust tracking in Microsoft Word, but what exactly is kerning? While it’s true that some elements of graphic design have gained everyday cultural understanding — I mean, they made a movie about a font — the truth is that there’s plenty of misunderstanding that surrounds any creative process, including graphic design and branding.
If you’ve never worked with a creative studio, I understand why it can be difficult to imagine how you’ll get from point A to point B. How do you even get started? Today, I want to share how easy it is to work with us at Map Agency. The first three steps are as follows:
1. Schedule a Meeting
At our first consultation meeting, we’ll get a better understanding of your business’s challenges. We’ll chat about your marketing objectives, and get to know your vision. This conversation, or two, can take place over coffee at our lovely office in Sandy Hook, CT, overlooking the majestic falls of the Pootatuck River. Or, as is often the case these days, we’ll schedule a convenient virtual meeting via Google Meet. A phone call works too!
2. Review the Proposal
Next, we provide a detailed proposal tailored to fit your goals. If it’s a branding project, we’ll outline each step of the creative process, from initial mood boards to final brand style guide. The rollout of a new brand usually can happen over time. Digital projects, like websites, often follow a similar but more rigid process in order to launch on a specific date. Smaller projects with a quick turnaround may only require an estimate. If we’ve worked together in the past, of course, much of this happens over email. But, since every client’s needs are different, so are our proposals — They are designed for your brand.
3. Kickoff The Project
Once approved, we'll get started on transforming your brand communications. The proposal should leave no questions unanswered, but we understand that things change. One of the best parts of working with a small design studio is our flexibility. Need to change the scope of work? Not a problem. Open and honest communication is the secret sauce throughout the remainder of the project.
Getting started on a new project is that simple. Once the proposal is approved, it’s usually off to the races! Of course, there’s more to this story, and just about every design agency proceeds differently. (Some even have even patented their process, which only adds to the smoke and mirrors surrounding our industry.) Know this: The two most important parts of our creative process are collaboration and transparency.
Collaboration
Map Agency will do most of the heavy lifting for any project, but our clients know a lot more about their business than we do. Your input is crucial for the success of any project. We’ll bring you in throughout the process to brainstorm, problem-solve, and make critical branding decisions.
Transparency
A detailed timeline is always agreed upon together. Rest assured that we’ll do everything in our power to meet those important deadlines. And, while our solutions are grounded in strategy, we understand that design can be somewhat subjective. That’s why we love sharing behind-the-scenes notes and sketches. We’ve found that some of our clients like to see “how the magic” happens, and we happily oblige.
No matter what the project, every client comes to us looking to elevate their brand communications. The reasons can vary, but it’s most likely the result of a brand that lacks engagement or visibility in the cluttered market. We understand how frustrating it can be when your brand doesn’t connect with your audience. Our creative partners deserve a brand that not only resonates but stands out.
Timeless branding is the key to standing out in a crowded market, and we're here to help you achieve it. Let’s create your timeless brand!
