Ownership
State whether the creator assigns copyright, transfers specific rights, or grants an exclusive or nonexclusive license; define any retained moral rights or portfolio use exceptions and how transfers are documented.
A precise contract protects both the creator and the client by defining IP ownership, permitted uses, payment milestones, and approval workflows. It reduces legal uncertainty, supports brand consistency, and documents consent that may be needed for advertising, social media, or co-branding.
Parties should ensure the signatory has authority to transfer rights or accept licenses and that the contract matches the intended scope of use across media and geography.
Signs on behalf of the design vendor when the firm holds rights to creative work; ensures deliverables meet the scope and that transfer or license language is consistent with agency policies and client billing terms.
Signs for the client when the organization is acquiring rights or a license; confirms authorized uses, approves final artwork, and routes payment and legal review per corporate procurement rules.
State whether the creator assigns copyright, transfers specific rights, or grants an exclusive or nonexclusive license; define any retained moral rights or portfolio use exceptions and how transfers are documented.
Specify permitted channels, territories, languages, durations, sublicensing rights, and whether digital-only, print, or broadcast uses are included or restricted.
List file formats, color profiles, artwork sources, resolution requirements, and any editable source files the client will receive at completion.
Define fees, milestones, retainers, final delivery conditions tied to final payment, and remedies for late payment or nonpayment.
Describe rounds of revisions, approval timelines, acceptance criteria, and consequences for missed approval windows.
Address originality warranties, third-party claims, liability limits, and the process for handling alleged infringement or misuse.
| Field Mapping | Place signature, initials, and date fields where required |
|---|---|
| Signer Order | Define sequential or parallel signing |
| Authentication | Choose email, SMS, or higher-level ID checks |
| Notifications | Set automatic reminders and completion alerts |
| Retention Rules | Configure archival and export formats |
Verify that chosen integrations support required file formats (PDF, DOCX) and preserve the audit trail for recordkeeping.
Allow 5–10 business days for internal and client review
Specify number of revision rounds and timeline per round
Client approval typically due within 10 business days
Deliver final files within agreed days after approval
Specify due date tied to milestones or delivery
Agreement scope and fees confirmed by both parties
Initial concepts developed and delivered for review
Client signs off on final artwork and approvals
Final assets and source files delivered
Tim Martin used an online contract to document ownership and delivery of marketing assets, including web and print files,
Optica required explicit sublicensing limits for co-marketing with portfolio companies,
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial, no credit card required | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies by plan |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |