99 Designs is a project competition site where designers from across the world can compete with one another to win projects. Each project has a set prize for the winning design chosen by the client which can vary from $400 – $1500. There are a number of different design types, including web design, logo design and icon design. Obviously the intensity of the competition is increased when the winnings are greater.
I was first introduced to this concept by a friend who suggested I give it a go. Upon further investigation it seemed like a good idea, having seen some of the projects on there and the freedom given in some briefs it is a real chance to shine in whatever project environment you choose.
Good or Bad for Freelancers?
Freelancing is always a risk to jump into, knowing that you will be able to live on your own irregular wage is something that we have all had to consider before committing to it full time. The good thing about 99 designs is that it has the opportunity to provide some extra income with just the design aspect, the only issue of course is that the work is not guaranteed, you could end up doing drafts for free.
My suggestion for freelancers is to not let it occupy your time too much, do the odd design here and there if you have some spare time in between projects / updates. Do not focus on it as a main source of income as it is even less dependable than your typical indecisive client, just without the build stage. Also remember this, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure – so don’t be afraid to tweak previous drafts to meet the criteria – it’s not cheating, it’s just common sense!
The bad news for designers seems to be the ability to copy ideas. Even though each idea is hidden to fellow designers, preventing direct copies from competitors within that project, there is a review stage at the end of each project where project drafts are seen by all. There also seems to be a slight hole in the concept, that being that the client does not have to pay unless they approve of the design, of course you would expect no less in the real world – but this does essentially create an environment where a potential project may have been posted by a web designer simply after free inspiration.
Is it the future?
To conclude, I think it is a great idea as long as it is maintained well which it currently seems to be, but it will never replace the need for a bespoke design created by a specific freelancer / agency. Definitely worth a pop at though if you want to be in with a chance to earn some extra dosh.
