Ontario designers reprimand Food & Drink for spec work request

The Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario (RGD) has taken issue with a request for proposal from Food & Drink magazine, published by the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO). The RFP requests layout samples be included.

According to a story in Design Edge Canada, RGD sent a strongly worded letter of reprimand, noting the RFP's statement that, while samples are not mandatory, failure to include them “puts those who do not submit layout samples at a clear disadvantage in the evaluation process.”

RGD rules of professional conduct prohibited membes from creating new work solicited as part of new business pitches; so-called "spec work".

“Design is a process,” the letter states, signed by executive director Hilary Ashworth. “It involves time, creative energy, strategy and, most importantly, client participation. For a designer to generate work without going through this process is to create something that is undeveloped and that does not reflect the client’s input and participation.”

Wayne Leek, publisher of Food & Drink, says his team is reviewing the letter and discussing it internally.