I think the main problem in the Malaysian market is that clients tend to be more particular about cost than quality, thus encouraging designers, particularly those fresh and/or doing freelance to charge lower than the market.

I, myself admit that I have no knowledge about the market price when i used to freelance(I'm a fresh grad btw). Companies are not keen to expose interns and trainees to market prices as they will look to commission jobs to you after your training/internship period. In the end, I just charge what I feel my work deserves.

And in response to the post that stated the terms design/designers are used too loosely, I disagree, cause in my opinion, everybody can design. A design can be as simple as positioning a dot on a blank canvas. The difference is whether it is a good/bad design.

Of course, if someone is merely executing someone else's design/idea (i.e. creating an artwork in Photoshop without realising/questioning it's function/motives/meaning, merely based on client's wishes) then he/she is merely a technician.

And regarding the tips, it's useful but in the end it all boils down to management, do you do it the tough and professional way, or you're more into the casual and friendly way. Both will make/lose you clients and/or dollars, so it's really up to your style/personality... and luck

Please note the above are just my opinions and everyone is entitled to have opinions of their own.

This post has been edited by bryan85: Jul 18 2007, 12:37 PM