A visual marketing communications partner shouldn’t be an afterthought to your marketing efforts, especially when you’re counting on them for sharply finished, color correct outcomes. When success rides on branding images, be deliberate about the who, what, and where of final results. Think through the company selection process. You’ll sleep better at night and your programs will be leading the pack.
Business vendors or affiliates desiring to fully understand your vision, project objectives, challenges and opportunities are worth their weight in gold. Why? Knowing where you’re headed allows them to guide you to cost-effective, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solutions linked with powerful ROI.
The following is a list of questions that will help you make the best selection for any given visual marketing project.
Questions To Consider Selecting a Visual Marketing Communications Partner
Projects go smoother when everyone is on the same page. The key is clear communication and dialogue. Prior to screening a potential partner, think through the following questions. Apply your experience and smarts to answers. It will benefit everyone in reaching success.
- What are the project goals?
- Who is the target audience and how are you attempting to engage them?
- What is the specific message branding/graphics must deliver?
- How will outcomes be displayed (suspended, wall-mounted, floor stand, endcaps)?
- What project layout plans, pictures, sketches are available for partner reference?
- What parts of your Brand Guidelines are project applicable for partner review?
- What is the timeline?
- What is the optimum delivery date?
- Is project sign-off from all internal stakeholders in place prior to starting?
- What special shipping or delivery requirements are in play?
- Has scheduling margin been secured for shipping or production delays? How was that determined?
- Who are internal and external vendors impacting the timeline?
- What is the project budget?
- What special materials or display limitations potentially impact costs and outcomes?
- How can savings be realized while keeping the project true to intent?
- What product lifespan is required?
- Is usage short-term or long-term? Under a month?
- Are products for multiple and/or repeated use?
- If permanent, what installation details or constraints need review to maximize longevity?
- How will pieces be integrated into the environment?
- Are they intended to complement a brand experience strategy? How?
- On what communication levels are assets to operate – orient, direct, inform the viewer? Visual only?
- Is project design tied to a specific product, promotional or seasonal program? How?
- Custom or standard design? Special size?
- What are advantages/disadvantages of custom-sized pieces, sizes, or shapes?
- How does product environment dictate design, limited space, sightlines, or durability?
- What is the brand impact using a custom, standard, or modified stock design?
- What install logistics need consideration?
- Who’s responsible for installation?
- Is special kitting from the supplier a necessity?
- What special handling is needed at the delivery site?
- Is there installation coordination or special scheduling with multiple vendors involved?
- What are on-site requirements? Power, after-hours access, or special equipment?
