In the digital age, a compelling visual identity is paramount for any business looking to stand out. However, professional graphic design services can be prohibitively expensive. Enter 99designs, a platform that democratizes access to quality graphic design through a crowdsourcing model. Here, we provide an in-depth review of 99designs, exploring its features, pricing, pros and cons, and alternatives to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your design needs.
How 99designs Works
Creating a Design Brief
The journey with 99designs begins by creating a design brief. This brief outlines the specifics of the design you need, including your style preferences, desired colors, and any symbols or themes you want to incorporate. A well-crafted brief is essential as it guides the designers in creating something that aligns with your vision.
Hiring a Designer vs. Design Contest
After submitting your brief, you have two primary options:
- Hire a Designer: If you have a clear idea of your project’s artistic direction, you can search for a designer from the 99designs marketplace. Designers are categorized into Entry, Mid, and Top levels, and prices vary accordingly.
- Design Contest: For those open to a variety of ideas, starting a design contest is a viable option. This involves opening your brief to the entire design community on 99designs, allowing multiple designers to submit their concepts. You then select the design you like best. This method is particularly popular for logo design and starts at $299.
Finalizing the Design
Once you select a design, you finalize the payment and receive the completed files. 99designs ensures that you obtain full copyright ownership of the designs, which are stored on the platform for easy access.
99designs Pricing
99designs offers a tiered pricing structure for design contests, each providing different levels of service and design quality:
- Bronze ($299): Approximately 30 design concepts, 100% money-back guarantee, and full copyright ownership.
- Silver ($499): About 60 design concepts, offering a broader range of ideas.
- Gold ($899): Up to 90 design concepts, featuring contributions from Mid and Top-level designers for improved quality.
- Platinum ($1299): 60 designs from Top-level designers only, a dedicated account manager, and priority support.
Pros of 99designs
Affordability
99designs makes professional graphic design accessible to a broader audience. The platform provides high-quality designs at a fraction of the cost of hiring a traditional design agency.
Variety and Choice
The contest format offers a wide range of design concepts to choose from, which can be particularly beneficial for clients who are unsure of the exact style they want. This variety ensures that you can find a design that truly resonates with your brand.
Quick Turnaround
99designs boasts a fast turnaround time. Design submissions typically start arriving within 24 to 48 hours, and the entire process from brief to final design can be completed swiftly.
Guarantees and Security
The platform holds payments in escrow until the final design is accepted, ensuring a secure transaction for both parties. Additionally, 99designs offers a money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the design submissions.
Cons of 99designs
Writing Effective Briefs
Creating a comprehensive and effective design brief can be challenging, especially for those not familiar with design terminology. A poorly written brief can lead to unsatisfactory design outcomes, making it crucial to provide clear and detailed instructions.
Lack of Designer Relationships
The contest format limits the opportunity to build a long-term relationship with a designer. While this might not be an issue for some, others may miss the continuity and deeper understanding that comes with working with the same designer over multiple projects.
Spec Work Concerns
The contest model involves designers submitting work on speculation, with only the winning designer getting paid. While this allows for a variety of submissions, it raises ethical concerns for some about unpaid labor.
Not Localized
99designs operates globally, meaning you might work with designers from different cultural and language backgrounds. While this diversity can be a strength, it may also lead to communication challenges.
Alternatives to 99designs
For those exploring other options, several platforms offer different approaches to graphic design:
- Fiverr: A marketplace for a wide range of freelance services, including graphic design. Offers affordability and a variety of designers but typically lacks the contest model.
- UpWork: Another freelance platform where you can hire designers directly. Suitable for establishing longer-term relationships with individual freelancers.
- Tailor Brands: Provides self-service design tools for creating logos and other brand materials. Ideal for those looking for a more hands-on approach without hiring a designer.
Conclusion
99designs provides an innovative solution to obtaining high-quality graphic design at an affordable price. Its unique contest model offers a plethora of design options, quick turnaround times, and secure transactions. While it has its drawbacks, such as the need for a well-written brief and the lack of long-term designer relationships, the platform’s benefits often outweigh these issues. For startups and small businesses looking to create a professional visual identity without breaking the bank, 99designs is a compelling option.