We were recently provided with a lengthy email from an outsourced technology group that very thoroughly explained why they could not “do” what we had proposed in the design. There was nothing about our design that we couldn’t have built ourself actually, but since they were the developers chosen by our client, we had to grin and bare it.

Technology advances. Designers find new inspiration mid-way through a project. Stuff happens. And usually these re-directions, make for a petter product (and happier client) in the end. So good developers, printers, photographers, or other creative industry vendors should anticipate things like scope creep and client add-ons. Its doesn’t have to be open ended, just a little more forgiving. 

Taking a little extra time to troubleshoot a bug, or crank out an extra page template, or extend a design to an additional piece of stationery, buys a lot of good will. Take printers for example. An extra 100 business cards, hand delivery, a suggestion on how to save a few bucks… These small gestures don’t cost much but pay off in spades. When a client sees you as their champion you make them a fan.

The bottom line is that graphic design, advertising, web development and the like are service industries. Doing great work is important of course, but great work what is expected of us. When we exceed the expectations and deliver just that little bit extra, they are more likely to hire you again, bring you more work, or pass your name along.