1. Defining
Project definition is a collaboration between the client and the agency. We start defining a project by determining the marketing objectives it needs to meet. We’ll define the targets of the message(s) that need to be communicated and then, together, we’ll establish a budget for the project. We’ll discuss what the desired outcome should be (i.e., what constitutes success) and how we will measure it. We will establish the project schedule and checkpoints and we’ll schedule review meetings.

2. Quoting
We quote every project in writing and we bill what we quote unless you make a substantial change to the project after it’s quoted. (For example, you decide that a 12-page brochure needs to be 16 pages.) We don’t charge retainers and we don’t ask clients to sign contracts obligating them for anything beyond the projects(s) they’ve ordered. We don’t send you invoices for copies, faxes, mileage, couriers, Fed Ex, etc.
We make sure you only pay for what you need.

3. Developing
Because we’re pretty familiar with the issues that are important to our clients and their customers, we can usually hit the ground running at this stage. We’ll ask you for all the background material that’s relevant to the project. We’ll digest it, discuss it with you, and ask some more questions. Then, we’ll develop a concept (actually, we usually give you two or three) for your review. When your chin goes up and down, that’s how we know we can proceed.

 

4. Approving
The NKD approval process is designed to ensure that there are no surprises at any stage of the project. Projects are quoted in writing and clients are asked to sign off before work begins. Designs, layouts, and copy are accompanied by a sign-off form, as are final proofs and bluelines. Revisions are confirmed in writing by NKD.