Brainstorming + Planning

Lamppost will meet with the client (either by phone or in person) to discuss the project and go over the client-completed design brief. The brief includes information on the project background, target audience and demographics, purpose and goals, message, deliverables, responsibilities, schedule and timeline, budget, and approval process.
See Resources section to download a design brief for your project.

Other items of discussion may also include the type and size of piece, and whether it will be printed or digital, tentative deadlines for submission of content to the designer. If requested (and applicable), Lamppost can provide paper stock and printing samples and can make recommendations for the project

Proposal

Once the project specifications are defined, designer will determine a cost estimate (budget) based on the hourly rate and the number of hours needed to complete the project. A proposal will be drawn up outlining the project. This will include a project overview, development details, cost estimate (budget), project schedule and milestones, expectations and deliverables, rate descriptions and any other pertinent items discussed during brainstorming/planning stage. If client has so requested, the designer will also obtain printer quotes during this stage. This proposal will then be submitted to the client for evaluation, usually within three business days.

Contract

Lamppost requires all clients to approve and sign a contract. This protects both the designer and the client and creates clear expectations and an agreement regarding project implementation and delivery.

The contract will be based upon the previously submitted proposal and will include payment terms, termination/cancellation policy and copyright/licensing information. Work will not begin until the client has returned a signed contract to Lamppost and any necessary deposit payments have been made (typically 1/3 the minimum cost of project).

Magic Happens (aka Design Process)

Depending on the type of project, the actual design process will differ slightly, but will include a certain number of design “rounds” or revisions of the piece (as specified in the contract), client feedback and approvals, and creation/implementation of all deliverables necessary to achieve scheduled project deadlines.

File Creation and Delivery

Final artwork is sent via email and/or made available for download. Lamppost is happy to provide specific file formats, upon request.

If the project has printed pieces, Lamppost can also help with print procurement and can coordinate printing and delivery options.
Note: printing cost will be paid to the vendor by the client or will be billed to the client directly without any additional markup.