POLICIES & PROCEDURES
In order to ensure smooth and ethical collaboration with our design studio, we have implemented various industry-standard policies in alignment with the Code of Ethics set by the Graphic Artists Guild. It is important that all clients adhere to these policies when working with us.
Starting January 1, 2024, all estimates, proposals & invoices will include a link to this webpage detailing our policies. Failure to review this page will not be accepted as a valid reason for non-compliance with our policies.
PRICING
Due to the numerous factors involved in the projects we undertake, creating a fixed price list is not feasible. Design is not a precise science that allows for accurate prediction of project completion time. We prefer collaborating with the client to establish a budget that meets their needs. Finding an existing item similar to what the client wants can greatly aid in developing an accurate Cost.
PROOFREADING POLICY
If we make a mistake (spelling, grammatical, etc.) We will correct it at no charge. Minor revisions may also be made at no charge. However, the client must identify all errors or request revisions before the file is sent to the printer. If errors are discovered or revisions are requested after the job has been sent to the printer, We may still make changes or revisions at no charge, but the client may incur charges from the printer for producing a new file. Should errors or revisions be identified after production, the client will be responsible for the cost of the original printing and any reprinting costs, even if the error was mine.
We aim for high-quality work, but it is important for clients to review for errors to ensure corrections are made before expenses are incurred. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
PROJECT DELAYS
Any delay in project completion due to external forces beyond our control (such as transportation issues, vendor problems, technology issues, holidays, or weather conditions) or client actions (such as late content delivery or feedback) will result in an extension of the completion/delivery date. Upon notifying the client, Starlight Designs will adjust the timeline accordingly. We expect clients to provide the necessary content, artwork, feedback, and approvals promptly.
CANCELLATION POLICY
In the unlikely event that a project needs to be canceled, the client is responsible for a fee based on the progress of the work completed. The cancellation fee breakdown is as follows: 50% of the total project fee for preliminary work, concepts, or comps; 75% of the total project fee after preliminary work but before near-completion; and 100% of the total project fee for nearly completed work, regardless of final approval. Additionally, all expenses related to the project must be settled in full.
Until the full invoice amount is paid, Starlight Designs retains ownership of all copyrights, original artwork, including designs and source code, and any other mock-ups. Unauthorized usage of any project elements by the client will result in appropriate legal action.
ARTWORK OWNERSHIP POLICY
According to U.S. copyright law, Starlight Designs retains ownership of all original artwork created, whether it is in the preliminary or final stage. The company may utilize this artwork for self-promotion purposes. Upon receipt of full payment as outlined in the original estimate, proposal, or invoice, Starlight Designs will transfer usage rights of the final product to the client. This transfer of rights grants the client unlimited usage and reproduction rights for custom work, such as logos, unless otherwise specified in the agreement.
CLIENT COPYRIGHT RESPONSIBILITY
The client is solely responsible for ensuring that any intellectual property (such as artwork, photography, programming code, etc.) provided by the client is owned in accordance with copyright laws. Starlight Designs cannot be held accountable for any copyright violations, legal actions, or resulting fees due to items provided by the client. Additionally, the client is responsible for conducting fictitious name searches before assigning logo designs.
INDEMNIFICATION FOR UNRELEASED USE
In the event that Client utilizes any content for which a release was not requested in writing or exceeds the authority granted by a release, Client agrees to indemnify Starlight Designs for all resulting claims and expenses, including reasonable attorney’s fees.
LIABILITY LIMITATIONS
Starlight Designs shall not be held responsible for any consequential or special damages, including but not limited to profit losses or financial or physical damages resulting from delays or issues in design, printing, coding, and/or programming.
VERBAL AUTHORIZATION POLICY
While efforts are made to document all transactions in writing, there may be instances where fees or expenses are verbally approved. Invoices will reflect any fees or expenses that were verbally authorized, and the client is expected to comply with payment obligations accordingly.
PAYMENT TERMS
All invoices must be paid upon receipt before work can commence. Should any additional services be requested during the design process, an extra invoice will be issued, and payment is required upon receipt. By doing this, we aim to concentrate on enhancing your brand while ensuring you have clear expectations.
REFUNDS POLICY
We strive to produce design work that meets and exceeds the expectations of our clients. Due to the personalized nature of our design services, we do not offer refunds. If a client approves an expense, such as the purchase of artwork (e.g. stock photography), and later decides to cancel, they are still liable for payment of these expenses as well as any replacement costs incurred. Thank you for your understanding.