Objective
Create a branded project estimate and timeline in Adobe InDesign that functions as a professional roadmap and a legal safeguard for your design studio. You will also mirror this data in Wave to practice formal invoicing.
Part 1: The InDesign Document
Your document should be a multi-page, cohesive PDF containing the following sections:
1. Cover Page
- Project Name: (e.g., Brand Identity Refresh)
- Client Information: (Name, Company, Address)
- Date of Issue: [Current Date]
- Design Studio Branding: Your logo and contact info.
2. Project Overview & Deliverables
- Summary: A 2–3 sentence brief of the project goals.
- Specific Deliverables: Use a clear list (e.g., 1x Primary Logo, 2x Secondary Marks, 1x Brand Style Guide PDF).
- Format Requirements: Specify final file types (e.g., .AI, .EPS, .PNG, .PDF).
3. Production Timeline
| Phase | Task & Deliverable | Target Date | Client Responsibility |
| 1: Discovery | Creative Brief & Research | Week 1 | Return completed questionnaire. |
| 2: Concepts | Presentation of 3 Logo Concepts | Week 2 | Select 1 direction within 48 hours. |
| 3: Revisions | First round of refinements | Week 3 | Provide consolidated feedback list. |
| 4: Finalizing | Final polish & color selection | Week 4 | Provide written Sign-off. |
| 5: Delivery | Transfer of high-res master files | Week 5 | Process final payment. |
Important Note: All client feedback must be provided within [3] business days. Delays in feedback will result in an equal shift of the Final Delivery Date.
4. Financials (Itemized Cost)
- Phase 1–5 Breakdown:
Ensure the phases here match the phases in your timeline. - Total Project Fee:
Calculated as (Estimated Hours × Hourly Rate) + External Fees. - Payment Schedule:
- * Deposit: 50% upfront to initiate the project.
- Final Payment: 50% due upon approval of final designs, prior to file delivery.
5. Legal & Rights
- Ownership: State that rights transfer to the client only after full payment is received.
- Kill Fee: Clause stating that if the project is cancelled mid-way, you are compensated for work completed.
- Validity: “This estimate is valid for 30 days.”
Part 2: Wave Integration
Using the data from your InDesign estimate, create a formal Estimate within the Wave accounting platform. Ensure the line items match your PDF exactly.