When a client or potential client calls to discuss an ongoing project or possible project, we often get asked the question “Can you do it?”  Whether this question is directed towards our services or budget, I always ask them the same question in return; “How much time do you have to dedicate to the project?”  Another frequently asked question, especially for projects with tight deadlines is “Can we make it?”  My answer to these questions is always “Yes” if it is understood that the best outcome is most often made possible when there is effort from both sides.  As a creative agency it is vital that our clients understand that their input, cooperation and most importantly collaboration is essential.  I’m continuously amazed when we are approached to take on any sort of project whereby the clients expectations are ‘just do it’ without the proper steps of communication between both parties.

(Last time I checked we threw out the crystal ball when we moved offices :-)

We are in the business of understanding our clients’ needs through a stringent methodology whereby we get to know the people behind the business, the business itself, the strategy, and their customers. Just remember, as much as our reputation is on the line for the work we do; it’s our clients’ project, their baby so to speak and so it IS very much a team effort to bring the vision to life. Deadlines and responsibilities need to be honoured and met on both ends…nothing deadens the creative faster then a painfully long, drawn out and interrupted decision making process – it kills the excitement of the launch!

Bottom line: asking creative to ‘just do it’ without any sort of mutually communicative efforts and preparation is like climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in a t-shirt and sandals thinking it’ll be warm at the top because its closer to the sun…

Vanessa
Co-Owner/President
Wednesday February 18th, 2009