Design Board | The Evil Side Effects of Spec Work

Good for entry level designers although not always good for the client whether they know it or not.

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Good stuff, but i am not sure whether this only applies to entry level only…

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If big companies can just make designers compete for each job, and never have to pay a designer, why would anyone want to enter the design profession?

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Design work, like any type of art, is often subjective. It is important to be trained, to have solid experience and an inspired point of view, but of those three traits, an inspired point of view, is, in my opinion, what makes a great designer. All the training and experience in the world cannot substitute for talent. A “second grade” designer may put just as much thought and innovation into their design, though they may not have the training to see that concept through to its true potential. Interesting topic. I am curious to hear what other designers think.

Interesting topic. I am curious to see what other designers think about this.

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Very interesting points, I think its clear there are two marketplaces.

Firstly the “decorators” the one brief projects, minimal relationship, an instant result the McDonalds of design. Fast food mentality but still big business. And if you enjoy this and good you will make money.

Then secondly the “problem solvers” the project is a journey, a building of a relationship, more about understanding the raw materials of design rather than the use of software, again a lucrative business if you are good at it.

As “designers” we decide which camp we stand in, but in truth you can’t have a foot in both camps. The issue for me is whether “clients” understand the benefits, the nutritional values of each. I’ve met with clients who can not see the difference in the two so will base it purely on cost and the fact it’s also quicker, this is when issues arise.

Ultimately I think the best work is produced when you have a good relationship as this builds trust, therefore spec work is counter-productive for this as its not a solid foundation to start the relationship.

I think its two separate markets and the gap will probably widen.

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I would think that someone trying to enter the industry would be better developing a portfolio based on personal projects, volunteer work (e.g. for a local charity or small business) or other options. If they don’t have a portfolio at all then they should be working on that rather than already pitching for projects.

The problem with spec work, even for someone trying to enter the industry, is that they are devaluing their own services in the long run. There aren’t any other services that I can think of where you’re only paid on the basis of a client’s subjective viewpoint, regardless of the amount of effort you’ve put in. That’s different from draft concepts, portfolio presentations and demonstrating that you have strong ideas and a clear vision of a client’s needs. That’s cool, but actually doing the project as a whole and merely *hoping* they’ll pay you…not so much.

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