It is typically assumed that when you are hiring a designer or technologist, the first thing you should look for is the fit between the designers skills and portfolio with your aesthetic and technological requirements.
This is true, but it isn't the whole picture.
I have been speaking with several past clients, and a few clients of other people and companies, (if I am going to be honest here) hoping to discover where 3sCo fits into the landscape of Montreal design boutiques. To my surprise I am discovering that some people are having unsatisfactory experiences with their contractual design projects. Many people seem to getting beautiful and functional sites, but dysfunctional professional relationships.
This is an unfortunate, and actually quite preventable problem. So I'd like to provide a handy list of questions and discussion points for clients to bring to the table when they are interviewing possible designers. Remember; your project and your time will only ever be as enjoyable as the rapport between you, your staff and the team that is implementing your vision:
- Make sure you have know what type of support your project will receive after it is completed.
If the company you are speaking with is not able to provide a Service Level Agreement then ask them what they charge for minor changes, and upgrades, what kind of security support your site will receive over the long term, and what their turnaround is on change-requests. If the company hasn't got a carefully formulated answer to these questions, ask them to get back to you with a proposal that includes long term allowances for care and maintenance - doing web-based projects, make sure your site has a warranty The first month or two of a sites life will be the moments when the most problems occur, if you can't get a promise (in writing please!) that the company you wish to hire, will also make sure that the project they make works to 100% functionality before they sign off and take their final cheque, than express reservations about hiring them
- Set up a communication policy before you begin work This can be as simple as defining delivery dates and the number of send-backs, or as complex as setting up twice weekly in-person meetings and conference calls, it all depends on the budget and how much you want to be involved in the project. The important thing is to make sure that both you and the designer are aware of each others communication needs and feel adequately compensated for the time you spend planning, giving feedback, and honestly, just chatting, during any project.
Think of it is as a Freelancer/Client prenuptial agreement. With those three items agreed upon, both you and your designer can enter into a professional relationship with a level of security and cooperation that will help you both protect your investment and equity, and allow your project to succeed and even become an enjoyable experience for all parties involved.