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Discover! Let’s show why creative careers are a great choice!


Could you provide design career experiences for 11-18-year-olds for Discover! Creative Careers Month this November?

11/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | July Summary


At July's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Rama Gheerawo and Clive Grinyer for the top line on their latest books. Here’s a brief summary of what was discussed in the meeting.

09/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Roundup


A roundup of industry expertise, exclusive resources, business support and tools for your design business.

02/07/2025


News


Read more >>

Design events calendar


There are many industry events held every year to enrich your team and business. We've compiled a snap-shot of what's coming up.

02/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | June Summary


In June's DBA Members’ Forum we had an interesting and inspiring conversation on the topic design education particularly in higher education. Here's a summary of the conversation.

03/06/2025


News


Read more >>

How to create a business that doesn’t get asked to free pitch


Why is it that some design businesses get dragged into speculative pitches more than others? Or rather, how do some escape the free pitching trap?

20/05/2025


News


Read more >>

How and why designers should turn down free pitching


At a recent DBA Members' Forum, leaders shared practical tips to help studios avoid free pitching. Design Week's Rob Alderson reports.

08/05/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | May Summary


In our May DBA Members' Forum, we had a lively discussion on the topic of free pitching. Here's a summary of the conversation.

07/05/2025


News


Read more >>

5 take-aways from the 2025 ‘What Clients Think’ report


Up to the Light's 'What Clients Think' report is a valuable tool for agencies and clients alike. The DBA's Adam Fennelow shares his top five take-aways.

09/04/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | April Summary


In April's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Mark Curtis, Head of Innovation and Thought Leadership at Accenture Song, for a fascinating look at the latest Accenture Life Trends 2025 Report.

08/04/2025


News


Read more >>

Main Content

Knowing when it’s right to part ways with a client

“This might seem surprising from someone who teaches client satisfaction and retention, but my New Year’s suggestion is to consider firing some. Do any of them demand free creative solutions in re-pitches? Do they provide the right work? Do they generate enough income? Do they pay their bills on time? Is the relationship (mostly) hassle-free? Do you actually like working with them? No? Then it’s time to let them go diplomatically.” Shan Preddy, Preddy&Co

Embrace the freelancer

“Many still think of the freelancer as an expensive necessity. But now that all the really good senior designers are freelancing we have to embrace them and re-think the financial model to include them as collaborative partners. So work out your project profit, deduct the freelancer’s share and accept that your share is what’s left. Remember a senior designer employee on £50k costs you £253 per day!” Gary Baxter, Lightbox 

The power of your Mantra

“During times of uncertainty it’s all about having true grit, determination and remaining confident in your product offer and positioning. Creating a mantra that captures in a heartbeat the very essence and spirit of your agency’s core belief is of value because it cuts through to the behaviour and standards required. All great teams have a mantra in times of need. They don’t panic, because they are; “Steady Under Fire.” What’s yours for 2017?” Rod Petrie, Rod Petrie Coaching

’tis the season

“I frequently meet talented sensitive creatives who’ve been slowly stripped of their joy by critical leadership, unconscious communication or lack of praise and recognition.

In this turbulent world, why not put JOY top of your list for 2017? Have the courage to ask for feedback, compassion to truly listen and commitment to increase joy in your studio. Your people and the world will be more joy filled because of you.” Emma Collins, Collins&Co 

Take a step back

“Christmas is the ideal time to take a step back and consider what you want from life. What will success look like to you? After all, the ultimate purpose of any business is to help its owners achieve their personal goals. So, identify those goals, and make it your resolution to ask your team, accountant, and other advisors to help your business deliver what’s important to you.” Ifan Lloyd, IDH Accountancy

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Distractions cost money

“Every time you are distracted – it takes approximately 23 minutes to get back to the task you were taken from. A group were asked to review their daily emails – over 35% of what they received was useless; 12% was considered immediate; balance could wait. Notifications and emails are spamming our lives and staying in control is the key to your maximum productivity. Don’t let them distract you.” Mark Lawrence Saunders, Agile Non-Exec Ltd

My new business advice for 2017? Stop selling.

“There’s a reason why most agency business comes from referrals or existing clients. You have a far better chance of converting opportunities where you already have a relationship (your existing client) or a tacit relationship (a referral). So for your next new business meetings, instead of selling, take the pressure off and just listen. Think of this as just hello and the start of a relationship and the work will follow in time.” Lucy Mann, Gunpowder Consulting

Nurture positivity

“2017 is set to be a year of change. Change can often bring out negative behaviour if it is not managed correctly. But if you implement an open and honest forum, employees will feel safe to discuss their concerns. By nurturing this atmosphere and developing a positive culture you’ll maintain motivation and results through this uncertain period.” Aliya Vigor-Robertson, Journey HR

The foundation of good business

“Find out what your client wants, then give it to them, on time. Deceptively simple, but it is the very foundation of a good business that gets repeat work and referrals.” Jack O’Hern, Wright Vigar

With thanks to the DBA Experts for their contribution.

ribbon6dreamstime_l_62933218copy2

Image credits: © Yuliya Pauliukevich Dreamstime.com

Discover! Let’s show why creative careers are a great choice!


Could you provide design career experiences for 11-18-year-olds for Discover! Creative Careers Month this November?

11/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | July Summary


At July's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Rama Gheerawo and Clive Grinyer for the top line on their latest books. Here’s a brief summary of what was discussed in the meeting.

09/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Roundup


A roundup of industry expertise, exclusive resources, business support and tools for your design business.

02/07/2025


News


Read more >>

Design events calendar


There are many industry events held every year to enrich your team and business. We've compiled a snap-shot of what's coming up.

02/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | June Summary


In June's DBA Members’ Forum we had an interesting and inspiring conversation on the topic design education particularly in higher education. Here's a summary of the conversation.

03/06/2025


News


Read more >>

How to create a business that doesn’t get asked to free pitch


Why is it that some design businesses get dragged into speculative pitches more than others? Or rather, how do some escape the free pitching trap?

20/05/2025


News


Read more >>

How and why designers should turn down free pitching


At a recent DBA Members' Forum, leaders shared practical tips to help studios avoid free pitching. Design Week's Rob Alderson reports.

08/05/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | May Summary


In our May DBA Members' Forum, we had a lively discussion on the topic of free pitching. Here's a summary of the conversation.

07/05/2025


News


Read more >>

5 take-aways from the 2025 ‘What Clients Think’ report


Up to the Light's 'What Clients Think' report is a valuable tool for agencies and clients alike. The DBA's Adam Fennelow shares his top five take-aways.

09/04/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | April Summary


In April's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Mark Curtis, Head of Innovation and Thought Leadership at Accenture Song, for a fascinating look at the latest Accenture Life Trends 2025 Report.

08/04/2025


News


Read more >>

Main Content

All hail the Bruirn-bru_pr_redesign-03

“It’s fizzy, it’s ginger, its (rebrand) is phenomenal! I’m talking, of course, of the mighty Irn Bru. Scotland’s second national drink has re-enforced its bold maverick spirit with a witty homage to the brand’s differentiating claim, ‘made from girders.

Quite simply their 2016 rebrand reaffirms its status as a Scottish Icon. Iconic in its simplification of core equities and Scottish through its nod to the country’s industrial past. All hail the Bru!”

Brian Mansfield, Managing Partner, Taxi Studio

Challenging Applescreen-shot-2016-12-14-at-14-12-27

“I am truly impressed with the new Microsoft Surface Studio. It is the first Microsoft product I have seen in recent years, which will challenge Apple. The perfect balance of technology and “human centric” design.”

Paul Flowers, Chief Design Officer, LIXIL Water Technology

Take a look at Microsoft Surface Studio

Design with emotional punchjw1180-somme-1916-poppy-lapel-pin-production

“The Royal British Legion released a limited edition, hand-made brass poppy pin for Somme 100. Formed from British shell fuses collected from the front line, the brooches’ red-enamelled centres are partially made of battlefield mud. Each is dedicated to a life lost, coming with a certificate with a soldier’s details. It’s also a smart, modern looking piece of jewellery. I think this is exceptionally thoughtful design with real emotional punch for which the Legion should be commended.”

Erika Clegg, Co-founder, Spring

 

A contemporary take on heritagenorth_coop_001_bag

“Perhaps it’s a nostalgia thing and the fact that I’m old enough to remember Green Shield stamps, but I’ve liked watching the Co-op rebrand this year.  It’s repositioned the business certainly in my mind, taking it back to fundamental values with a contemporary take on the heritage. It’s not just the identity design, but the careful consideration to the service offer and business model too. I like the authenticity.”

Lesley Gulliver, Managing Director, The Engine Room

 

Discover! Let’s show why creative careers are a great choice!


Could you provide design career experiences for 11-18-year-olds for Discover! Creative Careers Month this November?

11/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | July Summary


At July's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Rama Gheerawo and Clive Grinyer for the top line on their latest books. Here’s a brief summary of what was discussed in the meeting.

09/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Roundup


A roundup of industry expertise, exclusive resources, business support and tools for your design business.

02/07/2025


News


Read more >>

Design events calendar


There are many industry events held every year to enrich your team and business. We've compiled a snap-shot of what's coming up.

02/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | June Summary


In June's DBA Members’ Forum we had an interesting and inspiring conversation on the topic design education particularly in higher education. Here's a summary of the conversation.

03/06/2025


News


Read more >>

How to create a business that doesn’t get asked to free pitch


Why is it that some design businesses get dragged into speculative pitches more than others? Or rather, how do some escape the free pitching trap?

20/05/2025


News


Read more >>

How and why designers should turn down free pitching


At a recent DBA Members' Forum, leaders shared practical tips to help studios avoid free pitching. Design Week's Rob Alderson reports.

08/05/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | May Summary


In our May DBA Members' Forum, we had a lively discussion on the topic of free pitching. Here's a summary of the conversation.

07/05/2025


News


Read more >>

5 take-aways from the 2025 ‘What Clients Think’ report


Up to the Light's 'What Clients Think' report is a valuable tool for agencies and clients alike. The DBA's Adam Fennelow shares his top five take-aways.

09/04/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | April Summary


In April's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Mark Curtis, Head of Innovation and Thought Leadership at Accenture Song, for a fascinating look at the latest Accenture Life Trends 2025 Report.

08/04/2025


News


Read more >>

Main Content

Image credit: © Aprescindere Dreamstime.com

Discover! Let’s show why creative careers are a great choice!


Could you provide design career experiences for 11-18-year-olds for Discover! Creative Careers Month this November?

11/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | July Summary


At July's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Rama Gheerawo and Clive Grinyer for the top line on their latest books. Here’s a brief summary of what was discussed in the meeting.

09/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Roundup


A roundup of industry expertise, exclusive resources, business support and tools for your design business.

02/07/2025


News


Read more >>

Design events calendar


There are many industry events held every year to enrich your team and business. We've compiled a snap-shot of what's coming up.

02/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | June Summary


In June's DBA Members’ Forum we had an interesting and inspiring conversation on the topic design education particularly in higher education. Here's a summary of the conversation.

03/06/2025


News


Read more >>

How to create a business that doesn’t get asked to free pitch


Why is it that some design businesses get dragged into speculative pitches more than others? Or rather, how do some escape the free pitching trap?

20/05/2025


News


Read more >>

How and why designers should turn down free pitching


At a recent DBA Members' Forum, leaders shared practical tips to help studios avoid free pitching. Design Week's Rob Alderson reports.

08/05/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | May Summary


In our May DBA Members' Forum, we had a lively discussion on the topic of free pitching. Here's a summary of the conversation.

07/05/2025


News


Read more >>

5 take-aways from the 2025 ‘What Clients Think’ report


Up to the Light's 'What Clients Think' report is a valuable tool for agencies and clients alike. The DBA's Adam Fennelow shares his top five take-aways.

09/04/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | April Summary


In April's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Mark Curtis, Head of Innovation and Thought Leadership at Accenture Song, for a fascinating look at the latest Accenture Life Trends 2025 Report.

08/04/2025


News


Read more >>

Main Content

Get in touch

To find out more about the KPMG Small Business Accounting service for design businesses visit our website to request a quote or call 0808 231 0660.

KPMG website

Discover! Let’s show why creative careers are a great choice!


Could you provide design career experiences for 11-18-year-olds for Discover! Creative Careers Month this November?

11/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | July Summary


At July's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Rama Gheerawo and Clive Grinyer for the top line on their latest books. Here’s a brief summary of what was discussed in the meeting.

09/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Roundup


A roundup of industry expertise, exclusive resources, business support and tools for your design business.

02/07/2025


News


Read more >>

Design events calendar


There are many industry events held every year to enrich your team and business. We've compiled a snap-shot of what's coming up.

02/07/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | June Summary


In June's DBA Members’ Forum we had an interesting and inspiring conversation on the topic design education particularly in higher education. Here's a summary of the conversation.

03/06/2025


News


Read more >>

How to create a business that doesn’t get asked to free pitch


Why is it that some design businesses get dragged into speculative pitches more than others? Or rather, how do some escape the free pitching trap?

20/05/2025


News


Read more >>

How and why designers should turn down free pitching


At a recent DBA Members' Forum, leaders shared practical tips to help studios avoid free pitching. Design Week's Rob Alderson reports.

08/05/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | May Summary


In our May DBA Members' Forum, we had a lively discussion on the topic of free pitching. Here's a summary of the conversation.

07/05/2025


News


Read more >>

5 take-aways from the 2025 ‘What Clients Think’ report


Up to the Light's 'What Clients Think' report is a valuable tool for agencies and clients alike. The DBA's Adam Fennelow shares his top five take-aways.

09/04/2025


News


Read more >>

DBA Members’ Forum | April Summary


In April's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Mark Curtis, Head of Innovation and Thought Leadership at Accenture Song, for a fascinating look at the latest Accenture Life Trends 2025 Report.

08/04/2025


News


Read more >>