How do you include revisions in your graphic design contract?

1 Why revisions matter

Revisions are an inevitable part of any creative process. They can help you refine your design, improve your communication, and satisfy your client. However, they can also cause frustration, confusion, and conflict if they are not managed properly. That's why you need to have a clear and fair revision policy in your graphic design contract. A revision policy defines how many revisions you offer, how much you charge for them, and how long they take. It also sets the boundaries and expectations for both you and your client, and protects you from scope creep, endless changes, and unpaid work.

2 How to set the number of revisions

One of the first things you need to decide is how many revisions you will include in your graphic design contract. There is no universal rule for this, as it depends on your project, your client, and your preferences. Some designers offer a fixed number of revisions, such as two or three, while others use a percentage of the project fee, such as 10% or 15%. You can also vary the number of revisions depending on the stage of the project, the complexity of the design, or the type of deliverable. The key is to be realistic and reasonable, and to communicate your revision policy clearly to your client before you start working.

3 How to set the price of revisions

Another important aspect of your revision policy is how much you charge for revisions that exceed the number you agreed on. Again, there is no one-size-fits-all answer for this, as it depends on your rates, your value, and your market. Some designers charge by the hour, while others charge by the project or by the revision. You can also charge different rates depending on the nature and extent of the revision, such as minor tweaks, major changes, or new concepts. Whatever you choose, make sure you include it in your graphic design contract and invoice, and explain it to your client upfront.

4 How to set the timeframe of revisions

The last element of your revision policy is how long it takes to complete revisions and how it affects your project timeline. Revisions can delay your delivery date, affect your workflow, and impact your other commitments. That's why you need to specify how much time you need to make revisions and how it affects your deadlines. You can also set a limit on how long your client can request revisions, such as within a week or a month of receiving your design. This way, you can avoid procrastination, indecision, and outdated feedback from your client, and keep your project on track.

5 How to handle revision requests

If you have a revision policy in place, you need to be mindful of how you handle revision requests from your client. To make the process smoother and more productive, ask for clear and specific feedback, confirm and clarify the revision request, educate and advise your client, and document and track the revision request. Encourage your client to provide detailed comments rather than vague opinions by using a feedback form or questionnaire. Before beginning work on the revision, make sure you understand what your client wants and why. As a graphic designer, don't be afraid to explain your design choices, justify decisions, and suggest alternatives. Lastly, keep a record of the revision request, the feedback, and the changes made by using a project management tool or spreadsheet. Doing so will help you avoid confusion, errors, and disputes later on.

6 How to avoid excessive revisions

To prevent or reduce the number of revisions in graphic design projects, it is essential to understand your client's needs and expectations. Conduct a thorough research and discovery phase with your client and ask them questions about their goals, audience, brand, preferences, and examples. Communicate and update your client regularly throughout the design process and ask for feedback or approval at key milestones. Additionally, when delivering your design, present it professionally by creating a presentation that showcases your design, explains your rationale, and highlights your value. Utilize a mockup, storyboard, or video to demonstrate how your design works and solves your client's problem. Doing this will help you build trust with your client and avoid any surprises at the end.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?