The small graphic design and marketing studio advantage.

November 9, 2023

Studio size doesn’t define creativity.

Choosing to partner with a small graphic design studio doesn’t mean compromising on quality or limiting your growth potential. In fact, it can be a strategic leap that propels your business to success.

New Zealand small businesses offer a unique blend of personalised attention, unparalleled agility, boundless creativity, and a track record of excellence – all essential ingredients for your success recipe.

There is a growing trend of large businesses choosing to partner with smaller businesses over their behemoth counterparts. Smaller businesses may have a deeper understanding of local or regional markets, regulations, or cultural elements that can be vital for larger businesses looking to expand specific areas. Working with smaller businesses can also diversify supply chains or service providers, offer immediate communication instead of funnelling through multiple people, along with being seen as a commitment to social responsibility and promoting economic growth and diversity.

In the realm of business, quality transcends size, and it’s high time we explore the advantages that small design businesses bring to the table. So, let’s delve into these unsung heroes of the design landscape, where size doesn’t define the extraordinary results they deliver. Here’s why choosing small is not just a decision about design, but a celebration of their role in shaping our visual world.

Personalised attention matters.

One of the most compelling reasons why big companies in New Zealand are turning to small design studios is the level of personalised attention they receive. In a smaller setting, clients are not just another name on a long list of projects. Instead, they are valued partners whose unique vision and objectives are carefully considered. This personal touch often leads to more tailored and effective graphic design and marketing solutions.

The ability to adapt and innovate trumps size.

While large design studios may boast significant resources, they can sometimes become slow-moving behemoths. Smaller studios are known for their agility and ability to adapt quickly to new trends and technologies. This agility is invaluable in today’s fast-paced business environment, where staying ahead of the curve can make all the difference.

In a sea of big names, dare to be different.

When a large, popular design studio becomes the go-to choice for everyone, a curious uniformity emerges. It’s as though a creative echo chamber forms and soon, everyone ends up looking the same. This is where small design studios come in, offering a refreshing departure from the mainstream and inviting clients to embrace their distinctiveness to stand out from the crowd. In the creative realm, it’s often the courage to break away from the ordinary that leads to success.

Simple, direct communication.

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, direct contact with those involved in your projects has become increasingly rare. Many design agencies operate using complex filtering systems, where client feedback often gets lost in translation, leading to frustrating rounds of phone tag. When you choose a small design agency, you talk directly to the designer. No intermediaries, no lost messages, just clear and immediate communication.

Collaborative partnerships over transactional relationships.

Working with a small design studio is more like developing a collaborative partnership than a transactional business deal. Communication is open and transparent, and ideas are shared and developed together. This collaborative approach ensures that the client’s input is not only heard but actively incorporated into the creative process.

Quality over quantity.

Small design studios, especially in Invercargill, thrive on passion and dedication. They typically take on fewer projects, allowing them to maintain a high level of commitment to each one. The result is a focus on quality over quantity with each project treated as an individual.

Thinking big by choosing small.

The decision to work with a smaller creative studio is not just about thinking outside the box; it’s about recognising the unique advantages they bring to the table.

Next time you’re considering a design partner for your Southland or New Zealand-based business, think beyond the size of the studio you choose to partner with. Consider the personal attention, agility, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to quality that small design studios can offer. You may find that the most significant choice you make is opting for the smaller, but more agile and creative path.

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In a nutshell, here’s a quick comparison of the

advantages and disadvantages of each.

Large Graphic Design/Marketing Studio

Positives	Negatives
Large agencies often have a wide range of resources and a diverse team of staff in-house.	The client-to-agency relationship can be less personal, leading to possible communication challenges as the person you speak to won’t be the person working on your project.
They can handle multiple large, complex projects at once.	Sometimes decision-making processes can be slow due to hierarchy and processes.
Large, established agencies may have a stronger track record and reputation which can establish client confidence and increase referrals.	They may have fixed packages and less flexibility in services for smaller businesses.
	All skills in-house can mean higher fees and overheads.

Small Graphic Design/Marketing Studio

Positives	Negatives
Small studios can offer more individualised attention and custom solutions for client needs.	Smaller studios might have limitations in terms of resources such as a smaller team or less equipment.
Clients have direct access to the creatives for clear, swift communication. Meetings and conversations can be more productive as you get answers then and there, rather than a manager needing to ask the team.	They may not have the same level of industry recognition.
Smaller studios can be more adaptive and responsive to changes in project scope or market dynamics.	Being smaller, workflow is carefully planned and big projects may need to be scheduled once current projects are completed.
Lean team allows clients to only pay for the services they need.