The Fine Print

Speculative Work. Client organizations should not ask for work to be done “on speculation” – i.e., to have the assignment contingent on approval or work (mock-ups). Speculative work is subject to widespread abuse and is otherwise unprofessional.

Confidentiality. The client organization should expect that any information or material provided will be treated confidentially, and that all reasonable efforts will be taken to safeguard it. If requested, we will willingly sign a nondisclosure agreement.

Working arrangements. Unless otherwise stipulated, every assignment should be considered as compromising two equal sections: product specifics, market, objectives, and budget are the responsibility of the client organization; conceptual approaches, creativity, management, and production of expertise are our responsibility.

Submissions. It is our responsibility to provide what, in professional opinion, is the best solution to the client organization’s problem or opportunity. Similarly, it should be the responsibility to follow the objectives, input, criticism, and comments of the organization closely.

Ownership. Unless otherwise indicated, the output of the creative firm becomes, after final payment, the property of the client organization. However, all preparatory materials remain the property of Grassmeyer Design.

Nonuse. In accordance with professional services practice, the client organization is financially obligated for work done, whether or not it is utilized. In the event of dissatisfaction, the creative firm should resign at the earliest possible date. Grassmeyer Design will only invoice for time spent, not the original assignment estimate. Or if the project’s price was “fixed,” Grassmeyer Design will keep the 1/3 down payment for time spent on the project up to that point. Unless in the event, that time spent greatly exceeds the 1/3 down payment amount billed at the normal hourly rate. In this instance, Grassmeyer Design will negotiate with the client organization for a suitable “closing price.”