You are also correct in assuming that I did not intend to bash everyone that choses to engage in spec work (such as 99designs). I agree that this can be a beneficial resource for both designers (especially entry-level), and those who don't have the means to hire a professional (many of us have to eat fast food for a while before we can work our way up to 5 star restaurants).

From a professional standpoint, however, I am more acutely aware of the risks it poses to the client, designer, and the profession. My viewpoint is also shared by the AIGA (the largest and most highly respected design association in the country). Some of their comments on the subject can be found, here: http://www.no-spec.com/.

Perhaps I was taking it too personally, but I would have liked to have heard a more diplomatic discussion on the topic (along the lines of your comments, above). In any case, I very much appreciate your commitment to providing useful resources to your readers and clients. Thank you, also, for providing a space where myself, and others, can throw in their two cents.

On a lighter note, there is a very well-produced, and quite funny video (not directly related to design) that highlights the experience of the vendor-client relationship. Whether you're a client, a vendor, or both, it's worth a quick look: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2a8TRSgzZY

I honestly don’t really feel like I was bashing designers. If it sounded that way, I certainly didn’t intend it – hope you’ll forgive me.

I did relay some of my personal and client experiences, and recommended an option that would avoid the less pleasant aspects of those experiences. I stand by that.

But to project that this means I’m bashing any/all/most designers would be like saying that because I recommend you lock your car doors to prevent theft, I’m therefore suggesting that everyone who walks by your car is a thief.

Heck, I knew this is a “sensitive” issue for some designers – on both sides of the “spec/no spec” fence.

In fact, I hope people won’t react to your statement that “By its nature, these “spec” sites attract many inexperienced and under-educated “designers”, as meaning that you’re bashing all those professional, talented and highly qualified designers who also choose to offer their work through spec sites. (I’m 100% sure that wasn’t your intention either!)

There are good and bad eggs in all walks of life and business, so I fully agree – being informed is very wise.

So “Caveat emptor” it is.

But the truth is, this webinar wasn’t about the designers.

It was about the fledgling and small business owners; and independent professionals that I serve.

For them, I still believe that an open, globally competitive environment with convenient access to many designers, styles and perspectives; and the ability to take advantage of global economics; is a significant benefit.

Many are just staring up – exploring niches, developing markets, discovering their positions and brands.

They don’t typically have the budget or time to work with a designer providing the branding process and service you’re describing – as valuable as they may be; as talented and professional the designer may be.

Instead, they typically need to create professional graphics, banners, web sites, product shots, etc – quickly and affordably during this developmental time in their businesses.

The full branding service which you describe, and it’s associated fees, may be more appropriate for bigger businesses who value and need the additional services and processes, and who can afford the investment.

In the end, I’ll bet there’s plenty of clients and providers for both business models, and they’ll naturally gravitate to each other.

To imply that "most" mainstream designers are tossing out designs without much thought or commitment to quality, eagerly making changes to designs so that they can charge exorbitant rates to their unassuming clients, and laughing all the way to the bank, is not only disrespectful, but for many of us designers, it is also way off base.

I'm sorry that you had a negative experience with these designers, but as you know, every profession encompasses a wide variety of skill sets, business practices, and ethical standards. Take a look at your industry, for example. There are viable reasons why people seek out your expertise (and pay top dollar for it) rather than paying $29.99 for an ebook that will allegedly "make them millions" on the internet. And let's consider a simple blog. As a client, why should I pay extra and spend my time worrying about PPC, SEO, etc. – the site doesn't look any different, so what's the point? Well, anyone reading this blog will know the answer to that. But do the clients? Not until they are informed.

Being well informed is exactly what I'm advocating here. There are clear benefits to 99designs and similar sites – but there are also potential downfalls that people need to be aware of. For instance, if the design you chose happens to use a rights-protected font, or look too similar to someone else's logo (especially a corporate one), you can be held personally liable for copyright infringement.

Beyond what you're risking, you should also consider what you're not getting from this type of interaction. By its nature, these "spec" sites attract many inexperienced and under-educated "designers". Although some of these people are able to produce a decent looking design, it can potentially leave a lot of design problems unsolved. For example, a well-trained, professional designer is much more likely to consider the purpose of your design in the context of the needs of your market, be knowledgeable about the ethical and legal aspects of design, create a truly original and appropriate solution to your design needs, and be able to provide you with a comprehensive solution that will affect many aspects of your brand and marketing. After all, branding, done right, is so much more than slapping a logo on your stuff.