Time Estimates

[Chiquita]

Cheers, y'all. I'm new to freelance design, and have my first client. After plenty of research, I've figured out a payment formula, but now the time estimate has me stuck.

I've been asked to design the logo and print collateral for an audio/visual company. At this point, I've never done the entire process alone.

While there certainly isn't "One Right Answer", and timing of course depends on many factors--I would appreciate hearing from other designers.

How long does it take you to design a corporate logo?
How long for a business card? Stationary?

Thank you for your thoughts.

[CkretAjint]

I've spent days on logos, but at the same time I have spent minutes. It all depends on how comfortable you are with your level of skill, and what the client is asking for.

[budafist]

I work in production for a print company so my deadlines are tighter than many other places. When someone goes to a printer to get artwork done, they are usually in a hurry (like the want their business cards tomorrow).

I usually spend between 1/2 hour to 2 hours on a logo and the same for stationery depending on how many concepts they want to see and also how specific their brief is. Once the business card is approved, it usually takes only a few minutes to do matching letterhead, comp slip etc.

[C.E.]

Logos are NOT my forte (tho I wish they were!) but I've spent anywhere from 1/2 hour on one to weeks. It depends on the client and how obnoxious they are about what they want, if they know what they want, if they THINK they know what they want, etc etc. Sometimes you hit it on the head, sometimes the like it but it needs a little tweaking, and other times you redo it 10x. Make sure your contract indicates how many initial logo concepts and/or revisions you are willing to do for your set price. I normally charge a flat rate for my logos, but that is based on an hourly fee x estimated hours from knowing my skill set and client base. Good luck! Post your ideas to the showcase, this forum is *GREAT* for getting feedback.

[sierng]

When I was at college last year they gave us something like 6 weeks to design and ink 2 logos. :P

[greyghost]

I estimate it out as, 3 comps = 8 hours
5 comps = 11 hours

[Chiquita]

Thanks people. I really appreciate your feedback.
:)