I am laughing a new animation video agency and as this services offers many animation styles the prices may vary, so I would like to take your advice on the following question: 1- Should I offer packages with fixed prices for my designs? For example for basic flat design it will cost x, and for detailed design it will cost x and for custom design style it will cost x, so three packages with paid bonuses as well. Or is it better just to showcase my portfolio and encourage customers so talk to us? I have extensively thought about both options and found strong reasons to do both, as the first option where I show fixed prices will show transparency and honesty to the customer, and help them take the decision to work with us or not, it might also slow my growth and put my potential customers off if the prices is not good for them as there will be no room for negotiation. For the second option, which doesn't show prices and encourages people to talk to us, I feel that direct interaction plays a big role in getting business, but this might also put potential customers off as they may feel that we are not being clear to them and might want to trap them. From your experience, what is the best approach to tackle this? Thanks
In the realm of custom work, fixed prices are dangerous ground. It puts you in a position to either say "no" or ask for more money when a project has extra needs, and that's never a comfortable situation to be in.
You said yourself that speaking to a lead is the best way to make a sale. I'd echo that.
I'd also argue that letting potential clients know that custom animation is complex, and prices will vary based on their needs (which require a conversation to determine), is a great way to start out the relationship honestly.
If you're worried about lack of a stated price being a deterrent: people who shop on price without any eye toward quality are not the clients you want. If your portfolio is good, a serious lead will contact you and several other shops to get an idea of your approach and pricing. The BEST clients will hire the team that makes the best initial impression and shows the highest level of understanding the project; price will be a secondary consideration.
My general stance is: if you're selling on price, you're doing it wrong.
If you're selling custom work, sell custom work. Don't try to shoehorn custom work into a prepackaged box; it'll turn off high-end customers and attract the deal-seeking, high-hassle clients that are less fun/lucrative.
Good luck!
Answered 9 years ago
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