Creative operations · 21Cents Journal

When does a business need an ongoing creative partner?

An ongoing creative partner can help businesses maintain quality and momentum when their needs extend beyond occasional design requests.

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21Cents / JournalClear thinking.
Better work.
Based in Toronto, Canada

Some businesses only need a designer for a single project. Others have a steady stream of marketing, communication and website needs that are difficult to manage one request at a time.

An ongoing partnership may make sense when the business regularly needs campaign assets, social creative, sales collateral, website updates or help maintaining a consistent brand. It can also reduce the coordination involved in briefing several separate suppliers.

Put the idea into practice

The arrangement works best when priorities, deliverables, response times, revision limits and responsibilities are agreed in advance. A monthly partnership should not be an undefined promise of unlimited work; it should provide a clear and manageable scope.

The right model depends on the rhythm of the business. A focused one-off project is appropriate for a defined need, while an ongoing partnership is useful when consistent creative support is part of the operating plan.


Looking for a creative and digital partner? 21Cents works with businesses across Canada, the United States and internationally.

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