2. Give the designer some background to your company... history, products, clients, future plans.

3. Tell him about other design and marketing work that has been done or that is in hand, AND any associated problems, there is no point in going over the same ground twice, especially mistakes.

4. Prepare as much as you can, and have all the material available at one time. A full picture will enable an integrated concept as well as making a cost estimate more realistic

5. Allow the designer some room and license to bring his skills and experience to the project. Consider his suggestions, but in the end be sure that you are happy.

6. Keep revisions and amendments to a minimum (one set only if possible). Always pay attention to detail - a wrong phone number matters.

7. Some people like to be able to develop and improve a project to be sure that is as good as it can be, that's fine if you don't mind the extras costing more than the original estimate. If you're concerned about cost ask for an update.

8. Finally, when the bill arrives and its just as estimated (or even less)...(or even more!), call the designer, compliment him on an excellent job, call your friends, colleagues, co-workers, clients, suppliers and relatives and tell them. Post a cheque the same day and immediately start to plan your next project.