What to Look For in a Design Firm

Finding the right design firm for your projects can be a daunting task. In some cases it may even seem like more work than the actual project you need them for! Knowing what criteria to judge by and what things to look for will help you make the right decision.

A good design firm brings more to the table than great aesthetics. They should be able to incorporate marketing and communications into any project they work on. When looking for a design firm, the chemistry between you and the firm is very important. Look for those you would feel comfortable working with on an ongoing basis. As a firm works with you over time, they will be able to better know your needs and goals.
Look for firms that approach projects as marketing and communications issues rather than as design issues. The better design firms will not start out with questions like "What kind of brochure/annual report/Web site are you looking for?," even if you approach them with that in mind. The more savvy firm will instead ask you about your goals, and the message that you are trying to communicate, and the demographics of your audience. Design should always respond to these criteria.
In addition to looking at the firm's portfolio, ask for client references.
Find out about their project management skills. Good project management provides an opportunity for good design.
Look for enthusiasm and interest on their part. Do they take initiative in wanting to come to your office and learn about you?
Make sure to visit their office as well. This will give you a better look into how they work, and their operating environment. Who will you be working with at their firm? Meet the team.
Last, make sure you like their creative approaches.

How to Work With a Design Firm

It is generally best to discuss your goals with the firm. Make sure they know your audience, your needs, and what the project is to accomplish. Let them work with you to propose ways to address those needs. This will truly get you the best results. If you have already decided that a two-color brochure, with your logo on front, and two pages of content are what you want, then you don't need design, you need an employee. Many design firms will still be able to do the production work for you, but you are really shortchanging yourself, not getting the full benefit of their creative team to help you discover new ways to approach the problem.

It is generally a good idea to share the budget with the firms you are considering, even in a bid situation. Any reputable firm will be able to work with you to fit your budget, or immediately tell you otherwise. You will then be able to compare what each firm can do given the same resources. If you need help to determine what a reasonable budget is, be up front; better firms will be able to guide you with information on industry standards and a minimum level.