Our Magic Summarized
The steps in the dm design process that deliver these legendary results, consistently.
Multiple, thorough research sessions take place in order to strategically develop the foundation for prototyping visual concepts. The brand mission and positioning, competitive landscape, business location, and best practices are just a few of the numerous components which are recorded in what is known as a “Discovery & Planning” document in order to provide a clear direction for prototyping.
It is during the planning phase when user personas and tone & manner boards are created to establish a direction for the coming prototypes. Font pairings are presented and discussed as well as potential color palettes. For the web, a sitemap, user paths, and finally wireframes are developed which serve as the skeleton of the user experience.
This is where beauty and function is visualized; options are explored for identity concepts, a business system, packaging, signage and other agreed on deliverables. This includes web design static protoypes iterated with driving intent to make the user experience engaging and efficient. Additional ideas for collateral not presented in the original proposal may be introduced if appropriate, to further increase brand differentiation.
We swiftly move to scheduling production dates for print pieces and site visits for quality assurance. Making sure your deliverables arrive comfortably on time is high priority. Digital production such as website development will be in progress during the production phase.
The Launch is the realization of the strategy + branding coming together in beautiful harmony. Your customers have the opportunity to experience and shape your brand perception, so you should collect metrics and feedback that will build upon this foundation in the future. This phase should not be thought of as the end of the design process, but the first opportunity to begin assessing its effectiveness of delivering your brand promise. We can then understand how to take actionable steps towards most effectively improving upon the overall user experience.
A Multidisciplinary Approach
While our speciality is in creating identity systems and user interface design, we care about how all these offerings work together to build you something remarkable.
01
Branding
Brand Strategy
Creative Brand Development
Identity Design
Packaging
02
Marketing
Strategy & Research
Marketing Collateral
Advertising
Environmental Design
Event Branding & Collateral
03
Digital
Website Design & Development
Social Media Graphics
Frequently Asked Questions
Need additional clarity? Below you will find answers to some FAQs regarding our process and services. If you are still in need of help, we will be happy to correspond with you directly. Contact Us.
Do you create logos?
Logos or rather, “identity systems”, are included as a part of our Brand Packages, but we don’t design logos as à la carte items. Our Brand Packages vary in scope and deliverables and typically take three months to complete from discovery to delivery.
Do you handle web development/coding in-house?
No. We design and prototype 100% of all the sites we do in-house, but the development is handled by either a developer of your choice or a trusted partner of ours. All of our websites are built with responsive architecture and are built on the Squarespace platform or alternatively, WordPress depending on your needs.
What services do you outsource?
It all depends on the requirements of a project, but we often work with additional partners for photography and video, copyrighting, marketing plans/media buying, social media, SEO campaigns, illustrations and printing.
Do I have to be on a retainer?
Not necessarily. We determine what individual projects we take on depending based on a few different factors. Our clients are primarily contracted to work with us for a designated period of time (typically 2-3 months), which includes a specific number of projects to be completed month-to-month. For more details on retainers, send us an email with your specific question(s).
Do you offer application prototyping or development?
Not at this time, currently. However, as we continue to grow and expand our offerings, this is something we would like to include.
How can I learn more about your branding packages and what's included?
Each branding package is custom tailored to the client's needs, but the typical pieces to be expected are identity components (logo, patterns, illustrations as determined appropriate) and a business system (envelope, letterhead, and business card). All other pieces would be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
How much does a website cost?
Website costs can vary a great deal depending on the project scope and the amount of functionality desired or required. Typical “brochure style” websites start at $10K and go up from there. At DM design, we have the ability to prototype the static screens and style guide, required for a developer to implement on the web. Additionally, we contract with a trusted marketer and content writer for the copy on the site. All these processes account for the minimum cost of a custom website.
Do you require a deposit to begin work?
For one-time projects, we generally ask for a 35% upfront deposit to begin services.
How do you accept payments?
We email digital invoices that allow you to pay with a debit or credit card immediately. However, note that this method is only acceptable for invoices totaling $2,000 or less. Totals exceeding this amount must be paid via check or money order.
What are your payment terms for retainers?
In this instance of service, At least 50% deposit must be paid prior to us beginning work. The remainder amount for the month of service must be paid no later than NET 15, unless otherwise agreed.