Practitioner Case Studies Lecture - Key Notes.

Money

• Don’t start a studio without clients, you can’t run a business without income.
• Cash flow is a major cause of business failure.
• Be honest and clear with money, people respect transparency.
• Get an accountant early on to manage things like VAT.

Studio

• You don’t need a fancy office, some studios start in bedrooms or even at a bus stop.
• Keep costs low at the start, avoid big purchases or leases too early.
• Sometimes working from home is lonely, shared spaces can be helpful.
• Find a space that suits your work style, calm vs. collaborative.

Professionalism

• You need to be a good designer and good with people.
• Learn to listen to clients and guide them without ego.
• Design for the client’s needs, not just your own ideas.
• Always deliver more than you promise as it builds trust and repeat work.

Networking

• Work often comes through personal connections, not cold emails.
• Build a supportive creative network, peers, mentors, collaborators.
• Skills swapping with others (e.g. photography, print) can save money and build relationships.