1. How do I recognise a good branding agency?
By work in your industry or stage, a clear process with strategy before design, and by the questions it asks about goals, audiences and budget before it designs anything.
2. Do I need an agency in my city?
Not necessarily. For on-site workshops, trade-fair and space projects a local agency is ideal. For pure design and digital work, remote collaboration works well.
3. Large agency or small studio?
Large agencies offer many disciplines under one roof, small studios often direct contact with the creatives. For startups what matters is who actually works on the project – ask about it.
4. Does the agency have to pitch for free?
No. We don't forward requests for unpaid creative pitches. Good agencies invest time in understanding you, not in free designs. Usual are an intro call, proposal and references – or a paid discovery workshop.
5. How does a branding project run?
Typically briefing, research, strategy, design routes, refinement and roll-out. You decide at every step – which is why the decision makers should be involved from the start.
6. Who should decide on our side?
As few people as possible, but everyone who has to say yes in the end. If investors or a board have a say, involve them early – otherwise late U-turns threaten.
7. How many revision rounds are usual?
Usually 1–2 rounds per phase. Bundled, clear feedback from one team is worth more than many individual opinions. Agree the number in the proposal.
8. How do I give good feedback?
Refer to goals and audience rather than personal taste, say what works and what doesn't, and consolidate feedback within your team before sending it to the agency.
9. What should the contract include?
Scope, deliverables, dates, price and payment plan, number of revision rounds, usage rights to all designs and files, and what applies to additional work.
10. What happens after the project?
You receive all files and rules. Many startups continue with a monthly retainer so the brand stays consistent as they grow.
A proposal, not questionnaires
Describe your project once – we forward it to the ideal agency.