Cheap/Fast/Good: Design and the Triangle of Choice

We get it—in an ideal world, you’d want your design projects to be fast, good, and cheap. Many of our clients are grassroots organisations with limited budgets for professional services, or under-represented founders who face systemic challenges in securing investment. Naturally, you want your investment in design to stretch as far as possible, you need it done by tomorrow, and you want it to be top-notch. This isn’t a critique; we completely understand because we want the same things for our own projects.

This blog aims to explore the reality of the Triangle of Choice—the idea that you can never have all three: cheap, fast, and good. Generally speaking, you need to prioritise one or maybe two. By understanding the implications of each choice, you can make informed decisions that align with your goals and ensure successful outcomes.

Cheap: Of course you don’t want to spend money unnecessarily. The temptation for low-cost options is strong, especially when budgets are tight and for non-profits that’s almost all the time. However, graphic design and web development options that are cheap on the surface can lead to unexpected expenses. Imagine hiring a developer at a bargain rate, only to find yourself paying double to rectify issues later. In the long run, cheap isn’t always as economical as it seems.

Fast: In today’s fast-paced digital world, the demand for quick results is understandable. Yet, rushing a project often means cutting corners, which can compromise quality. A project completed in haste might meet immediate deadlines but could fall short of your expectations in the long term.

Good: Investing in quality design and development is a wise decision. While it may require more time and resources upfront, the long-term benefits are substantial. A well-executed project not only meets your current needs but also stands the test of time, ultimately saving you money and hassle.

We’ve encountered numerous clients who come to us after trying to make it work with out-the-box solutions or a freelance developer who over-promised, only to face double the costs due to poor execution. As one client shared in a recent discovery call, ‘we used a web design template because we had to be cautious with spend, but it ended up costing us more in the end.’ These experiences underscore the importance of making informed choices.

Transparency and a client-focused approach are core to how we work. Our hourly rate reflects our commitment to delivering quality work, paying our creatives fairly, and ensuring accessibility for those who need it most.

All women and LGBTQ+ founders and organisations are offered a 10% reduction in our rates, which they can opt into or pass it on to another organisation. We collaborate closely with you to understand your needs and provide tailored advice, ensuring you receive the best value for your investment.

Cecilia, our Founder and Creative Director always urges potential clients to explain their situation so they can offer the best options: ‘Because we are a non-profit, we will work with you to understand your needs. If you need something done cheaply or require advice, we’re here to help.’

This ethos is at the heart of our approach, ensuring that we deliver solutions that align with your goals.

Choosing to do it right the first time can lead to sustainable and cost-effective solutions. By investing in quality, you avoid the pitfalls of rework and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a job well done.

If this blog has left you feeling demoralised, please don’t be put off! Drop us a message and tell us about your design needs and your limitations via the Contact form, so we can help.