Most design scope creep starts with a scope that never said what was not included. Before the next logo or brand project, write two short lists into your Scope of Work.
5 deliverables to name explicitly
- Logo suite (primary, secondary, icon) in SVG/PNG/PDF
- Color palette with HEX/RGB/CMYK values
- Typography selection (licensed fonts listed separately)
- One-page brand guidelines PDF
- Social profile assets (avatar + cover, 2 platforms)
5 things to write into "out of scope"
- Additional logo concepts after the concept round is closed
- Packaging, signage or print production management
- Font or stock-image licenses (billed at cost, pre-approved)
- Website design or build
- Unlimited "small tweaks" after final approval
Define a revision round
A round = one consolidated feedback list from the named approver. A common structure: 3 initial concepts → client picks 1 → 2 refinement rounds. A brand-new concept after selection is a change order, not a revision.
Three clauses worth adding
- Concept ownership: unselected concepts stay yours and aren't licensed to the client.
- Source files: editable files are delivered [included / for an extra fee] after full payment.
- Third-party assets: fonts and stock are licensed in the client's name.
When the "can you do a few more options?" email arrives, reply with a change order instead of free work — there are 3 free scripts here: https://opspack.vercel.app/scope-creep
If you want this pre-filled: the Client Contract & Scope Kit for Designers ($19) has the proposal, SOW, plain-English services agreement, 10 scope-creep emails, a revision log and the designer niche guide this post is based on: https://opspack.vercel.app/kits/client-contract-kit-designers — or browse all templates from $5: https://opspack.vercel.app/kits
Templates are a starting point, not legal advice.
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