The most common question we get about our graphic design services is related to the turnaround time. And why not? Everyone wants a bang for their buck, and a quick turnaround time is the best route to maximize that value.

It’s so important that most of our competitors make their sales pitch around a promise of a quick turnaround time. But that’s where it gets complicated. If you look below the surface level, there’s always a condition that says, “The turnaround time will vary depending on the project.”

What exactly does this mean?

Of course, there’s no simple answer, and we’ll try to explain the detailed answer in this article. We’ll discuss the average turnaround time for various graphic design services to better understand if it’s really possible to get a quick turnaround time or if it’s just a marketing gimmick.

And most importantly, we’ll explore if a quick turnaround time affects the design quality. So it’s going to be a long ride; buckle up!

Decoding The Graphic Design Turnaround Time

1. How the Turnaround Time is Decided?
2. Average Turnaround Times of Design Services
3. Realistic Commitments vs Marketing Gimmicks
4. What Causes Delay in Turnaround Time

Let’s dive into more details to better understand the graphic design turnaround time.

1. How the Turnaround Time is Decided?

Companies decide the turnaround time for design services based on factors such as the complexity of the project, the scope of work, the specific requirements, and the efficiency of the design team.

For example, an infographic would take more time because it has multiple elements, such as charts, graphs, and detailed information. Whereas a blog-featured image will take less time because it only includes a simple illustration/stock image and some accompanying text.

The availability of skilled designers also makes a difference. If the project requires specialized skills or expertise that may not be readily available within the team, it could extend the turnaround time as the company may need to allocate the right personnel or, in some cases, seek external expertise.

2. Average Turnaround Times of Design Services

Based on the various factors we discussed above, here’re some general guidelines for average turnaround times in common design services:

Logo Design:
Range: 3-5 days
Factors Influencing Time: Complexity of the logo, number of design concepts, and revision rounds.

Website Design:
Range: 4-10 days
Factors Influencing Time: Complexity of the website, number of pages, custom graphics, and functionality requirements.

Print Collateral (Brochures, Flyers, etc.):
Range: 2-5 days
Factors Influencing Time: Number of pages, complexity of design, and content preparation.

Social Media Graphics:
Range: 1-2 days
Factors Influencing Time: Number of graphics needed, design complexity, and brand consistency.

Infographics:
Range: 2-6 days
Factors Influencing Time: Complexity of information, design elements, and revisions.

Branding Packages (including various elements):
Range: 4-10 days
Factors Influencing Time: Comprehensive branding involves multiple components, including logo, color schemes, typography, etc

Video Editing:
Range: 5-7 days
Factors Influencing Time: Type of video, length and complexity of the video, number of edits, and special effects.

3. Realistic Commitments vs Marketing Gimmicks

It’s very important to understand the difference between realistic commitments and marketing gimmicks. The biggest giveaway would be an overpromise – if a company promises surprisingly quick turnaround times, then it may be a tactic to attract clients and can result in rushed and subpar work.

A lack of transparency can also raise concerns about the accountability and reliability of the company. For example, if the sales page says 24-hour turnaround, but the terms of service list various conditions that indicate a longer turnaround time, then clearly, the company isn’t honest.

You need to work with a company that’s straightforward about such things, like we have listed the turnaround times of our graphic design services on our sales page like this:

4. What Causes Delay in Turnaround Time?

Now that we have established what an ideal turnaround time looks like, let’s also discuss some factors that can contribute to delays:

Improper Communication

Ineffective communication between clients and designers can lead to misunderstandings and delays. That’s why we emphasize the importance of streamlining communication, especially when you’re outsourcing graphic design work.

Unnecessary Revisions

Revisions are essential in creating good designs. But sometimes, there can be unnecessary revisions that contribute to delays; for example, we have had clients who make multiple changes in their design brief midway through the process.

Delay in Feedbacks

Delays can occur from the client’s side if the designers are waiting for feedback to proceed with the next stage of the project. This interruption in the workflow can significantly prolong the project timeline.

Resource Availability

If certain aspects of your design projects depend on external factors, such as third-party resources or approvals, then it can introduce delays that are beyond the control of the design team. For example, if you need a particular kind of stock image in your design, then the availability of that specific image becomes a critical factor.

Summing Up: Graphic Design Turnaround Time

There’s never a simple answer that could determine the graphic design turnaround time. It’s a dynamic process influenced by many factors, including the complexity of the project, the scope of work, feedback loops, and the efficiency of the design team.

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario, you can talk to your designer or design company to make sure that their services align with your requirements. And if you need good quality designs without constant back-and-forth, sign up for our graphic design services. We offer a quick and realistic turnaround, ensuring complete transparency and efficiency.