The Art of Business: A Designer’s Bill of Rights

Eric J. Adams

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“Just because a client pays you, doesn’t mean they own you.” That (paraphrased) is what one designer/reader wrote in response to “Your Client’s Bill of Rights,” my suggestions as to how clients can get what they want from designers.

I couldn’t agree more. Even though you may be on the provider end of the client/provider partnership, the operative word is partnership. You as a designer deserve the inalienable rights of partners working in equal status. I’ve sat on both sides of the client/contractor aisle, so here I propose the other point of view, “A Designer’s Bill of Rights.”

Yet what good, you may ask, are rights, if your client chooses to disregard them? After all, you’re certainly not going to wave a printed copy of this Web page in their faces and say, “See? This is how you’re supposed to be.”

Often it’s difficult to know how much abuse you should take or how far out on a limb you should go for a client. If nothing more, use this bill of rights as a reminder to yourself of exactly where to draw the line in the sand.

The Designer’s Bill of Rights
As a creative professional of sound mind, and wanting to stay this way, I believe I am entitled to these inalienable rights when working with you, my client.

• The right to be paid promptly.

When we agree on payment in “net 30,” this means payment will be made in 30 calendar days or sooner. It is not in my best interest, nor yours, for me to spend precious time chasing after payment. Time and goodwill be lost on your project.

• The right to sufficient time.

I understand that time is always a luxury in the corporate world, where projects are hurried, under budgeted, and understaffed. But for me to do the kind of job you’d like, I need ample time to develop ideas and implement successful solutions. Please initiate contact as soon as possible and alert me to project changes as soon as they occur.

• The right to accurate information.

Should your firm want an accurate estimate or bid, please be forthcoming with a budget range along with a project profile that is as complete as possible. If you can’t provide sufficient information, be prepared to be billed by the hour or expect project costs to vary from initial estimates. Inform me as quickly as possible of project or policy changes or changes in practices. Conversely, I expect you to take the time to understand and adhere to my business practices and customs.

• The right to a written contract.

Please do not expect me to complete substantial work on the basis of a verbal agreement or the vague promise of a written one later. I reserve to right to negotiate and stipulate terms of payment, dispute resolution, and other essentials in writing before making a major commitment to a project.

• The right to be free of micro-management.

I understand your eagerness and interest in the project, but please allow me to manage the process without questioning every move or strategy. I appreciate your interest in design/illustration/copy writing and I’m happy to work with you, but please know I can serve you best if you allow me to do my job unfettered.

• The right to correct mistakes.

I strive to be perfect, but occasionally I do make errors. I will do my best to rectify mistakes as quickly as possible. I ask that you not unjustly penalize me for oversights, missteps, and momentary lapses in judgment.

• The right to be treated fairly.

I hope to provide you with superior service and results, and I’m happy to make myself available to answer your questions and concerns. Nevertheless, I have a life and I like that way. Please don’t call me after hours unless previously arranged. If you have a problem or concern, please communicate without resorting to bursts of anger or name-calling.

• The right to communicate with the right person.

To do the best that I can, I need to keep lines of communications open with the most appropriate person or decision maker on the project. Please don’t expect me to “read minds” or wonder what the big boss will say once the project is complete. Let me speak with the highest decision makers first and often to ensure success.

• The right to abide by the law.

Please do not ask me to violate copyright, or trademark laws by illegally using artwork, photos, logos, or copy. These are violations of my code of ethics and the law.

• The right to service other clients.

I am an independent contractor and my livelihood depends on working with several clients simultaneously. I owe my other clients the same respect and consideration I hope to give you. Therefore understand that I cannot be available at all times to work on your project.

Your clients may never give a moment’s thought to your rights, but don’t let them to treat you unfairly. If you want respect, you’ve got to give it to yourself first.