AI: As a generative new technology,  AI (such as ChatGPT) is incredibly tempting with exciting possibilities. It does, however, present a number of challenges, including:

• Not always being reliable in terms of accuracy of information.
  (Case in point: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books/article-i-used-gpt-4-to-write-my-biography-heres-what-it-got-wrong/ )

• Some information it presents may be copyrighted.

• Can it really understand your creative vision and particular brand voice? (Data inputs to receive the unique results you are looking for are tricky to achieve.)

Design Platforms: Online design platforms (such as Canva) are user-friendly tools useful for creating day-to-day elements such as graphics for social media, however, in terms of utilising them for building your visual brand you should consider:

Unique Branding: Do you want to see your brand elements in 1000 other brands, or do you want to take your branding to another level with unique, stand-out visuals? 

While online design platforms offer a wide variety of design options, including templates for materials such social media graphics, they offer a limited level of customisation compared to professional design software that can accommodate more advanced design techniques. Limited customisation means frustrating restrictions in terms of modifying templates (layouts, fonts, colours, and images) to create unique designs. Additionally, there are branding limitations in terms of what platform branding elements you can removing or replace, which can make it difficult to create designs that align perfectly with your brand's visual identity.

Access to Your Work: Do you want to be in control of your assets? 

Online design platforms are = primarily online access. Lack of offline access can be a costly limitation in terms of workflow and meeting crucial timelines. Having the ability to call your RGD partner and/or have a system set up with them for accessing your assets offline is an important consideration.

Design Ownership: Are you sure you own it?

When using online design platforms, it's important to carefully review the licensing terms and understand the ownership rights of the designs created. While these platforms allow users to create and download designs, they retain certain rights to the designs and may have limitations on how they can be used outside of the platform.

Cost/Value Ratio: What is the true return on investing in a RGD versus attempting to create a brand package on your own? 

Hiring a RGD can save you valuable time and resources. We have the skills and experience to complete projects efficiently and effectively, reducing the risk of costly mistakes or reworks that arise from having limited design knowledge. Additionally, by outsourcing your design needs to a professional, you can focus on other aspects of your business.