What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?
I do feel better about the quality of the copy that we are putting out there as a result of what Chris has done for us. It is the same as far as the branding he is doing for us, as it is very clear, focused, and eventually, we will start to see the results of a cohesive brand image as we get bigger as we are a small boutique brand right now. It has translated well as far as the confidence of the brand I am portraying to our clients. It is clear, cohesive, and professional. For me, that has been the value add more so than translating to dollars. I can’t wait to see how our latest work together turns out because that is going to be where I really start to see the true value in the work Chris has done because it is something, he has truly built from the ground up for me.
How did Thompson & Prince perform from a project management standpoint?
He performs pretty well. He is very disciplined, and you can tell he is organized. He always makes sure he is clear about what you want, and if he is not clear, he will ask a ton of questions. I definitely think he is professional in that manner, and he is very detailed which is something I like. As far as project management goes, I am very happy with how smooth it seems, at least from my end.
We use Google Docs to collaborate. We also do conference video calls when he presents things like the logo and branding guidelines to us so that we can ask questions and provide feedback there. We also use email on a daily basis, and we can jump on a quick call if needed.
What did you find most impressive about them?
Their attention to detail is impressive. I also like the fact that Chris has a really good knowledge of guidelines that are required for branding and also the website and SEO. He is also good at coaching through the work. If I say I like something, he will have his suggestions and opinions on why he thinks it might not be a good idea and will explain why it might be better to do something another way which I like. For me, that is why I go back to him. I feel confident that I am going to get very clear and professional work, and also learn something in that process.
Are there any areas they could improve?
This is something he is aware of, so he may have improved already, but if I had to give something it would be more around the customer service aspect of the way he gives direct feedback. He could soften up on his customer skills a little bit. You can definitely tell he is someone who doesn’t mince words. He may not sugar coat things and his delivery can come across harsh at certain points which is fine as that is one of the things, I like about working with him because he is very honest. However, it could rub someone the wrong way, and even me sometimes, but I do recognize where it comes from.
Google Docs is not my favorite tool as I am someone who likes conversations versus going back and forth in a document or email. Sometimes things can be misinterpreted in a document, especially if you are someone like Chris who can be very literal or exact and detailed. If you say something, he goes by that in a document versus how it feels across a phone conversation or a video. If things don’t come across clearly in the document, instead of going back and forth via the document, maybe just jump on a call. I do think he does it that way because it is probably more efficient for him, but it can get a little annoying clarifying things through the document versus just having a phone call to make it clear. Other than that, he does great work and I can’t wait to do more projects.
Do you have any advice for potential customers?
Find out from Thompson & Prince what you need to have upfront before you start so you don’t hold up the process. There are some things you have to devote time to that is needed for Chris to be able to move forward.
A lot of that was done with a couple of my projects, and there wasn’t a lot needed from him. When we built my site from the ground up, I feel like there was a lot more that Chris has needed from me in order for him to move forward. Be clear about what you think you need to have before you start. That way, when you get going, you aren’t holding up the process.
The team delivered a design that accurately represents the company on a tight schedule and budget. Attentive and proactive, they communicated effectively to ensure a smooth process. Their diligence allowed the client to take a more hands-off role when needed.