Frequently asked questions

 

What can I expect from working with Shout Out Graphics?
You can expect a professional service and unique artwork that concentrates on a lot more than how your business looks. We will look at what you are hoping to achieve through working with Shout Out Graphics and then we will map out a strategy to fulfil this. This process differs widely depending on the customer and their needs but it can involve identifying USPs, discussing your target market, discussing where and how you plan to promote, refining your message and associated copy, your current branding, the use of imagery, budget constraints and printing and finishing to name but a few areas. Only then will a design/s be produced based on our research and you will then have the opportunity to work with us and refine you design/s until you are 100% delighted with the outcome. You can also expect sensible artwork charges as we believe that creative ideas and execution should be available to all despite budget constraints.

 

I need a logo design – how does this process work?
A logo is a hugely important element of your business as it will essentially be your identity. We want to get this right and will take time and care in producing a design that epitomises your business and its values. Initially we will have a consultation where we aim to find out more about your business; what you do, who uses your services, what your values are, who your competition is etc. It is also a chance for you to put your thoughts forward; do you have a symbol that you really want to incorporate or a colour that you really want to avoid? Based on the results of the consultation three designs will be produced which we will require your feedback from. We will then work on your preferred design and continue to refine it until you are delighted with the outcome. You will then receive your logo on disc in JPEG, GIF and PDF formats. Other files can be supplied on request.

 

I need a website but I really don’t know where to start. How can you help me?

We like to deal with our websites in exactly the same way that we deal with our other artwork so that’s why every website we create is unique to you and your business. We also know how important it is to fulfil your needs when it comes to functionality. Do you just need a simple site which gives you web presence and relays information to existing and prospective clients or do you need a site where you want to sell hundreds of products to a specific market with full search engine optimisation? We can deal with both options and everything in between. As with logos and printed artwork we will begin with a consultation where we will talk about your needs, expectations and what you are hoping to achieve through your website. Depending on what you require we will then discuss which web solutions will be appropriate for you. For example, would you benefit from a quote facility on your site or perhaps you feel you’d like to opt for a content managed site that you can update yourself? We will also discuss the look of the site as we would the look of a leaflet to ensure that it is a continuation of your branding, enhances your message and appeals to the right target market. Basically, whatever you want and need, we’ll have a solution and you can be confident that at every stage your business and its needs are at the forefront of our minds. After our initial consultation we can draw up a quote and work will begin from there. As with our other artwork, there will also be plenty of stages for review along the way.

 

Do you deal with printing?
Yes we do. Printing can be a stressful job to deal with if you aren’t in the know! There’s an awful lot involved in the setting up process and mistakes can be expensive. We are happy to take the stress out of this for you and offer exceptional value high quality printing. We also have plenty of samples that you can view ensuring that you can select the right finish for your printed material. All printing prices that we quote to you will also be inclusive of VAT and delivery so there’s no hidden surprises! Turn around is usually eight working days although if the pressure is on work can be turned around at a quicker rate for an additional cost. It’s also not just straight forward printing that we offer. Shout Out Graphics specialises in bespoke work so if you need a lolly pop shaped flyer, a silver metallic business card or a sheet of stickers with your face on, we can sort it out.

 

I need some eye-catching work but don’t have any images. What can you do?
With most design work good images play an important part in not only the look and feel of your business but what it stands for. Excuse the cliché, but a picture really does paint a thousand words. If you are struggling for images there are a couple of options available to you. At Shout Out Graphics we have a wide range of creative contacts so we could point you toward a photographer that could work according to your needs. The benefit here is that all your images are exclusively of your personal business, premises, handiwork etc and they are executed by a professional. Alternatively we can provide stock photography which is a more cost effective option and there are often a huge range of appropriate images and illustrations to choose from. You could also have a go at taking pictures yourself if you are a budding David Bailey. We never ever use ‘Google images’ in our designs as they are often low quality and pose copyright issues. Our rule is that if it’s not yours or you didn’t pay for it then you can’t use it. Trust us; it cuts out a whole lot of hassle in the long run!  

 

I need your services but also need help in other areas- can you point me in the right direction?
When you work with Shout Out Graphics you also can gain access to our wealth of tried and trusted professional contacts that may be able to help you. If you need a photographer, a 3D visualizer, expert in leaflet distribution, proof reader or expert in long copy we can refer you to someone with the knowledge. Just ask us and we’ll search our data base of contacts. Who knows it might be the start of a beautiful relationship.

 

How does the payment process work?
Our consultation offers the opportunity for us to identify what you want to achieve through working with Shout Out Graphics. Some clients come to us knowing that they definitely want 10,000 double sided colour DL leaflets on 150gm paper with a gloss finish whilst others prefer to discuss their options. Usually at the end of a consultation both parties have a clear idea of what is required and we can produce a quote. The quote is based on £20 per hour artwork charge so we work out how long the work is likely to take and price accordingly. If the work takes longer or you require additional work we will notify you if further charges will be incurred. If printing is required we can detail the cost on the same quote. At this stage if you are happy to go ahead we ask for 25% up front for artwork costs and 25% on artwork sign off.  The remaining balance of 50% is to be paid upon receipt of printed material, receipt of artwork on disc (if not printing) or on site completion and within 14 days of invoicing.