| Spec
Work
Spec (or speculative) work is defined in the The
Business of Graphic Design as: "Providing design services to
develop creative concept work for free (or for a nominal fee) as part
of a new business pitch."
The RGD Ontario Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit members from
taking part in, undertaking or conducting open competitions for commercial
purposes on speculation. A member may conduct, participate in, undertake
or compete in any design competition for projects of general, community
or public interest if they are of a non-profit nature and if the
rules of competition have been approved by the Board or conform to general
competition rules approved by the Board.
RGD Ontario's Board of Directors will not approve a project competition
where designers are required to submit uncompensated creative work as
part of the selection process. (Members may donate their time and expertise
on a pro bono basis for charitable purposes or for family members.)
Please see sections 36-43 (Competitions and Fees) of the RGD Ontario
Rules of Professional Conduct (Bylaw
#3) for complete details.
Spec work is universally condemned by design organizations around
the world as harmful to both clients and designers alike.
See:
www.no-spec.com
www.gdc.net/business/ethics_and_professional_practice/articles186.php
www.aiga.org/content.cfm/position-spec-work
www.allgraphicdesign.com/graphicdesign-workingonspec.html
Download RGD Policy Statement on Spec Work
RGD Ontario provides a policy
statement detailing the harmful effects of demands for spec work
and gives advice on the professional methods for selecting graphic design
services.
RGD Ontario members and non-member professional are encouraged to
contact us when asked to engage in spec work. Depending on the situation
and request, RGD Ontario will either write to and advise the offending
parties directly, or provide complainants with a copy of the policy
on letterhead – see tools.
To inform us of a case of spec work or for further information
please contact:
Hilary Ashworth, Executive Director
e-mail: execdir@rgdontario.com
phone: 1.888.274.3668 x 23
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