Apples to Apples

With the exception of the cauliflower, these food items are all green. (Anyone disagree?)

But, the question IS, do they all taste the same?

Well of course not. We wouldn't expect them to either because we're not comparing two of the same kind. So of course we're going to get different flavours, different shapes, varying shades of green, and different prices. Nothing is absolute here.

I think this metaphor is a good one to help clients (and designers) understand the variances in the graphic design industry. It's not as cut-and-dry as some may think. There are a variety of designers with different education, experience, professional accreditations, and even creative style. All of this will effect the end price for each project but remember that you get what you pay for.

Too many times I've seen Craigslist postings advertising a logo for $50. Those designers are either undercharging, hoping to land the job in-turn devaluing their work, or they just won't produce high-quality work that effectively communicates and the money spent, is now wasted. As a client, do you want to partake in either?

To further complicate that issue, Wallmart (of all places) is now offering stationery and marketing materials for small businesses through their very own print shop.

These two instances may give the impression that this profession is so easy anyone can do it, even Wallmart. But as I have said in previous postings, that's not the case and never will be.

Graphic designers can also use this as a metaphor for clients too. No ONE client has the same needs as another so having cookie-cutter pricing is also unrealistic and isn't the best business practice. By doing so, you may over-charge or you may under-charge and who wants to run a business doing either?

Like the plate of food, just because they're all green doesn't mean they're all created equal.