Every creative profession has a concept of a "sample book," or "show reel." Sometimes a vendor will send it to you. More often you must schedule a visit with the vendor to see it. Either way, ask to see some sample work. This is the most important part of your vendor evaluation process.

Are the projects impressive? Have they been completed recently? If the work looks dated, ask to see recent examples. Sometimes a good, busy vendor will have sadly outdatedsamples. This may simply indicate he has been too busy to update his work. If this is the case, expect an honest reply and an offer for you to sit and look through some work that the vendor may not have the time to edit into a presentation

What do you look for when viewing samples? Look for elements of what you want. Is the design scheme of a sample brochure sophisticated in the way your project aspires? Does the CDROM draw you into it's world the way you want your viewers to be drawn? Is the video as exciting as your favorite TV program? Most importantly, are the projects appropriate for the clients they served or do the jobs reflect more the artist's own desires? Self indulgence is the biggest trap of the creative professional. You want to hire a great talent. But you want that talent under your control. Does the vendor seem willing to execute your desires?

Vendor's brochure

Credit list

Vendor's references

Vendor visits you

Sample work

You visit vendor