Client Guide

& Project Process

Overview

Each website project follows a collaborative process designed to create a strong first draft and then refine it together through thoughtful feedback.

The goal is to establish a clear design direction early on and use revision rounds to polish and strengthen the final result. This structure helps keep the project focused, efficient, and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Payment

Projects are confirmed with full payment up front before work begins. There are two options for payment depending on how you prefer to work together.

  • Many projects are completed through the 99designs platform, which provides escrow protection and a structured environment for managing the project from start to finish.

    Because 99designs charges a platform fee, this is reflected in the pricing shown within the platform.

  • Some clients prefer to work directly outside the 99designs system. In those cases, projects can also be completed through direct payment.

    Direct projects do not include the platform fee, but the same project structure and process apply.

Project Process

Most projects follow a simple structure:

First Draft

The first draft establishes the overall visual style, layout approach, and structure of the site.

Revision Round(s)

Revision rounds allow us to refine the design, adjust details, and make improvements based on your feedback.

Final Adjustments & Launch Preparation

Once revisions are complete, we finalize the site and prepare everything for publishing.

This process helps us move efficiently from concept to finished site while still allowing space for thoughtful refinement along the way.

Design Direction

The first draft establishes the core visual and structural direction for the site.

Once that direction has been approved, revision rounds focus on refining and strengthening the existing design rather than exploring entirely new concepts. This helps keep the project moving forward while ensuring we arrive at a polished final result.

Requests Outside Revision Scope

Occasionally new ideas come up during the process, which is completely normal.

Some requests involve new design work rather than refinement, such as:

• exploring a different design direction after a draft has been established
• adding new pages or sections not originally discussed
• creating custom graphics or illustrations
• adding new functionality or integrations
• significant layout redesigns after approval of the original direction

When these situations arise, I’m always happy to incorporate the work as additional project hours so we can continue developing the site in the direction you have in mind.