What are the benefits of having a design team on retainer?
WRITTEN BY: ALISON JOSHI – CREATIVE DIRECTOR – JWJ DESIGN
Having a design agency on retainer can potentially save a business money, but it can depend on a variety of factors. I want to highlight why our clients choose to work with us on retainer, how that may help you; but also highlight why it might not be the right decision for your business.
Before we continue, I should clarify what it means to have a design agency on retainer. Essentially, this means that your business has a contractual agreement with the agency to provide specified design services as needed for a specified period of time, often at a reduced rate compared to their standard hourly or project rate. In exchange, the agency is guaranteed a certain amount of work from the business during that period – normally allowing a specific amount of hours per month.
If, as a business, you are regularly creating marketing material, seasonal promotions and advertising activity – then having a designer on retainer can be a cost effective solution.
Here are my top 5 benefits of having a design agency on retainer:
Reduced hourly or project rate
Having a retainer means that you get access to designers for less than their hourly rates. At JWJ we have a lower hourly rate for our retainer clients, meaning that they get access to great design quality at a more affordable rate.
Flexibility
Having a designer on retainer can provide the business with flexibility to adjust the level of work and services they receive as needed – without the long-term commitment of a full-time employee. A retainer is a great intermediary step between ad hoc design projects and a full time in-house designer in your business.
Business Knowledge
When you have a design agency on retainer the design agency gets to know your business, briefing is quicker and they understand the heart of your message. You also save time, as you aren’t having to write extensive briefs for each project plus they will have all the old projects on file so you don’t have to scramble around trying to locate all your assets each time.
Agility
Retainer designers can be more agile as we can respond to last minute requests; for example last minute advertising space or social trends and events that need an immediate response. Your business can stay up to date and respond easily to any large scale events that might be happening in the world.
Consistency
You’re more likely to see consistency in the quality and content of your marketing, the design team will get to know your brand style inside and out and become brand ambassadors for your business, ensuring everything looks relevant and effective. Plus, it is a lot easier to budget for the year ahead when you know what money is being spent each month and plan activity around your available hours and budget.
There are a few potential drawbacks to having an agency on retainer, it’s not for every business. For example, if a business doesn’t end up needing the amount of work they anticipated month after month then they may still be obligated to pay the monthly fee.
At JWJ Design we are constantly reviewing our retainers with clients to ensure they are getting the best service for their budget – open communication about their expectations are an essential part of our client relationships.
If you would like to discuss whether a retainer would be suitable for your marketing needs, let’s get a call scheduled. I’d love to discuss our options and get to know you and your business.
