6 March 2023

How to choose
the right
designers for
your report

Choosing the right report designers to create your company’s annual report is an important decision that requires careful research and consideration. From looking at past projects to meeting with different teams and experts, there are a few key steps that you should take before you make your final selection.

If you're looking for advice on how to design an annual report, explore this article to learn more about how to choose the best report designers for your company.

5 steps to help you choose a report design agency

Evaluate experience and reputation

Before deciding on report designers, spend time evaluating the agency’s experience and reputation. Look for companies that have experience in both financial and creative design, as well as those who can skilfully weave together text and financial information into an effective design. For a holistic view, it pays to read reviews from both previous and current clients to get a better feel for the quality of work they provide.

Do your due diligence on prices and services

Besides evaluating an agency’s experience and reputation, it’s important that you do your due diligence when researching their prices and the services offered. Make sure you understand what type of service package each agency offers and how much they charge for it. It can help to get a few quotes from different companies so that you can compare them side-by-side. Keep in mind that some design agencies may offer additional services, such as report writing, copyediting or conversion of existing designs, which could be beneficial depending on the project scope.

Review the design process provided by the agency

When choosing annual report designers, it’s important to review the process they provide and make sure that it suits your company’s needs. Most agencies will put together a tailored proposal for each of their clients, outlining services such as how frequently they’ll attend feedback meetings, their proofreading processes, production timelines, and much more. Ask questions at this point if you are unsure of any element, such as what types of designs they specialise in or the costs involved with printing the annual report. It’s also helpful to examine customer reviews online or check out the agency’s portfolio so you can get a better feel for their style.

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Choosing the right design agency to create your company’s annual report is an important decision that requires careful research and consideration

Ask for samples for reference

Before signing a contract, ask for samples of the agency’s work so you can review the quality for yourself. Once you get these in hand, assess them against your own expectations and needs as a company. Establishing a clear vision of what kind of design style you want will help you find an agency that aligns with your goals. If they provide an example that looks like what you’re looking for, then they may be a good fit!

Talk about specific deliverables and timelines upfront

Before you enter into a contract with a new annual report designer, ask exactly what deliverables they include in the package. Some agencies may only provide basic designs, while others might include more comprehensive services like layout and content proofreading. When discussing timelines, be sure to get in writing what the expected timeline will be for each step of the process so that you can stay on track!


What your agency needs to know

How to choose a design agency

When engaging with your design agency it’s important to:

  • Define processes from the outset – Who will be responsible for creating what content? Who needs to approve certain parts of the report? Clarifying such details will avoid conflicts between stakeholders. Assign a project manager to map all the stakeholders, their roles and responsibilities.
  • Determine delivery and key deadlines – It can be stressful producing a report, especially when printed copies need to be sent out. Establishing key milestones and clear final deadlines is essential. This includes ensuring the mailing schedule allows sufficient delivery time to meet your requirements.

It’s also vital to allow time for the final checking of content, including key numbers before your report goes to print. We recommend that the design is completed three days before it goes to the printer. This allows time for a printed proof and a final scan of the content to ensure all is correct.


In summary…

Your communications and design agency will play a huge role in the success of your report. From getting the look and feel right, to ensuring you meet all deadlines, they’re a vital cog in the report machine. So, it’s vital to have the right partner.

When choosing whom to collaborate with, look for an agency that:

  • Listens rather than lectures
  • Has a team whose personality aligns with your values
  • Understands your vision and brand
  • Has proven capability to deliver both a print and digital version of your report
  • Has the capacity to meet your deadlines
  • Understands your budget and knows how to get the best from it

Download our guide and discover how to design reports that inspire your stakeholders

 

Want to know the secrets of excellent annual report design?

Download our FREE eBook to discover:

✅ How to get the most from your report
✅ How to increase engagement
✅ Our proven design process

DOWNLOAD


JDJ Creative has a team of experienced annual report designers

If you’re looking to choose an annual report designer, then look no further! We’ve been creating report documents for our clients for over a decade. We always take the time to research the client’s industry and collaborate with them to produce a report that fully resonates with their target audience and meets their key objectives.

Whether you’re looking for an annual report, an integrated or standalone sustainability report or a review document, we have the expertise to write, design, and edit your document to industry standards. For an informal chat, get in contact with our design team today at hello@jdjcreative.co.uk or fill in our contact form.

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