Graphic design has become an inevitable part of doing business in the digital age. In fact, the global graphic design market is valued at more than $60 billion, reflecting its crucial role in helping brands communicate effectively.
For brands that need graphic design services but don’t want a long-term commitment, unlimited graphic design is an efficient solution. But with a lot of options out there, how do you evaluate service providers? Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the perfect one for you.
What Exactly Is an Unlimited Graphic Design Plan?
Unlimited graphic design plans are monthly subscription packages from online graphic design services. It is called such because customers can request an unlimited number of design changes in a month. Apart from this, revisions are not capped, making it easy to obtain the exact design you need.
Unlimited graphic design plans are typically marketed as a more cost-effective alternative to freelance designers. For a single flat fee, customers can usually request custom graphics for materials like:
- Blogs
- Branding kits
- Packaging design
- Digital assets for social media
Advanced tiers can even include:
- Video editing
- Website design and development
- 3D rendering
The flat monthly fee system ensures that clients don't have to worry about expensive overtime or revision fees. In fact, it is like getting a team of specialists for the price of one. Because of this, these kinds of plans are typically used by small businesses or startups, or even mid-sized companies that have consistent design needs.
This type of plan usually involves you logging into the platform’s custom workspace, where you can submit your design request. From there, you’ll get a chance to communicate with your designers and better explain your requirements.
Once the first draft is finished, the designer will present the early drafts to you, and you can request revisions as required. Most unlimited design services will promise request completions between 24 to 48 hours. Finally, designers give you access to the final files in the requested formats.
Don’t know how to check if an unlimited graphic design plan is right for you? Here are some factors you can use to evaluate the reliability of one.
Factor 1: Turnaround Time
Depending on your design request, the turnaround time may differ. However, the first draft for a typical design request, such as social media posts or packaging design, typically takes 24 to 48 hours. Revisions will typically take more time as there tends to be some back and forth between the designer and the client.
It’s important to inquire about the service provider’s typical turnaround times for revisions. Most providers take 24 hours to submit a revision, but others can complete it in less time.
Photo by George Milton from Pexels
Another factor to consider is the geographic location of the service provider’s teams. Some design companies employ designers in a different time zone. Because of this, make sure to double-check if they have someone who can overcome the time difference for your project.
Here is another tip: Make your design brief detailed and specific. This will lessen the chances of you requesting a big revision.
Factor 2: Quality
Most unlimited graphic design plans free post their graphic design portfolio on their website. It is important to check out the clients of the graphic design company and see if your business operates in the same niche.
Photo by Karola G from PexelsBecause their designers have had previous experience working with other companies in the same niche, they’ll have a basic understanding of your industry and your competitors. Apart from that, their client portfolio will also reveal the quality of the work.
Unlimited graphic design plans promise a high-quality design. Be wary of service providers that charge top dollar for basic, cookie-cutter design.
Factor 3: Pricing
The key to making the most out of most unlimited graphic design plans is to have consistent design needs. This makes it easy for you to extract value from the service.
To help you calculate the value you are getting out of the service, think about the amount of design needs you’ll require in a month. Unlimited graphic design plans are great if you typically average around 8 to 11 hours of design work in a month.
Besides these factors, a good indicator of a reliable design company is its onboarding process. Make sure that they are transparent about their design processes and the limitations of their service.
Photo by Michael Burrows from PexelsSome graphic design plans will also include an account manager to help you communicate better with the designers. Others even have 24/7 customer support to help you with your needs.
Next, make sure that their scope of work fits your needs. Most basic plans do not include video, animations, or ads, so keep that in mind when purchasing plans.
Finally, look at online reviews. See what others have to say about the company’s design, delivery, turnaround times, and workflow.
Finding the right unlimited graphic design subscription that suits your needs can be tough. It is a very specific service that can cater to a very specific type of client. With a sea of options available in the market, it can become confusing fast. It is essential to focus on factors that are the most important to your business.
Finally, the best unlimited graphic design plans are those that can address your graphic design needs promptly and deliver high-quality designs at a fair price.
The Lowdown: Choosing the Right Service Provider
When evaluating unlimited graphic design plans, it all boils down to how they address your unique needs. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Pay attention to turnaround consistency. Choose a platform that delivers fast drafts consistently. For example, Penji and Design Shifu offer a turnaround time of about 24-48 hours.
- Browse their portfolio. Check the platform’s portfolio of past works. Doing so will help you gauge if their style and quality of work align with what you have in mind.
- Know what’s included in the plan. How unlimited is unlimited? Take the time to understand their services and the range of formats included. If, for instance, you need motion graphics, double-check if it’s included in the plan or if you need to upgrade.
Featured Image Credit: Photo by Vitaly Gariev from Pexels
