Which rocks do you turn over to find the right design partner for your project? The answer lies in three steps.

First...
Determine the design "specialty" you need for your particular project. All designers have strengths and weaknesses; Here are a few tips on how to identify each.

Second...
Start your search by asking around... then move to an online search to widen your pool. Referrals from colleauges are great because they can talk about their overall experience with the firm, as well as the final outcome. Then go online to compare creative work. Here is a list of great sites to start with.

Third...
After selecting a few firms to approach, qualify them by asking some key questions. Your looking for strong verbal communication skills combined with creative and/or technical know how. Your also looking for honesty... they need to be up front with you about what they CAN and CANNOT accomplish.

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article contribution by:
Dave Pappas
Owner / Creative Director