How to save money on logo or web design projects

How to Save Money on Design Projects: The Strategy-First Approach

Want to save money on your next logo or website design project? Whether you're just starting out or planning a rebrand, here's an insider tip from someone who's been both leading and observing countless design projects.

The Common Costly Mistake

Many businesses make this expensive error:

• Going to designers without clear strategy
• Expecting designers to solve business problems
• Using design sessions as strategy meetings
• Lacking clear brand positioning
• Missing core message clarity

The Hidden Cost of Unclear Strategy

When you approach designers without strategy:

1. Design meetings become strategy sessions
2. Project budgets get overrun
3. Time is spent on business basics
4. Designer focus splits between strategy and design
5. Results may not align with business needs

The Bartender vs. Therapist Analogy

Think of it this way:

• A bartender might give great life advice
• But they're not a licensed therapist
• Similarly, designers can offer business insights
• But they're not brand strategists
• You're paying premium design rates for strategy work

The Right Sequence for Success

Step 1: Strategy First

• Define your business strategy
• Clarify your brand positioning
• Identify target audience
• Establish core messaging
• Set clear objectives

Step 2: Design Implementation

• Logo design
• Website development
• Visual identity creation
• Marketing materials

Why Strategy-First Works Better

When strategy is clear:

• Design projects move faster
• Budgets stay on track
• Designers can focus on their expertise
• Results align with business goals
• Customer journey is clear

The Common Regret

A phrase heard repeatedly from clients: "I wish I had met you sooner."

Why? Because they:

• Built without strategy
• Spent more than necessary
• Had to revise later
• Missed opportunities for alignment

Your Money-Saving Action Plan

Before starting design work:

1. Develop clear brand strategy
2. Define your positioning
3. Understand your audience
4. Clarify your messaging
5. Document your vision

Remember: Let designers do what they do best - make things beautiful and bring your vision to life. But first, make sure you know what that vision is!