DesignVertrag

A DesignVertrag is a contract between a designer or design agency and a client that governs the creation and delivery of design work. It covers disciplines such as graphic design, product design, industrial design, and UX/UI, among others. The contract typically defines the scope of work, deliverables, milestones, timelines, and acceptance criteria, and may specify formats and the number of revisions.

Key terms include compensation and payment: the fee structure (fixed, hourly, or milestone-based), payment schedule, reimbursable expenses, and invoicing details. Intellectual property rights are central: the agreement should state who owns the final design and any underlying concepts, whether copyright is assigned or a license is granted, and the scope of that license (exclusive or non-exclusive, territorial reach, duration, and rights to modifications or derivatives). In some jurisdictions a work-for-hire arrangement may apply; in others, copyright remains with the designer unless explicitly transferred.

Deliverables, delivery timelines, and acceptance procedures are outlined, sometimes including provision of source files, style guides, or brand assets. Confidentiality and data protection terms protect client information. Warranties or representations may limit liability and address non-infringement. Termination clauses specify how either party can end the contract and the consequences for work in progress, including rights to use or discontinue materials.

Governing law and dispute resolution define the applicable jurisdiction and mechanism, such as mediation or arbitration. Practical considerations include third-party asset clearances, license terms for fonts or stock imagery, and a clear change-order process with sign-offs. A well-drafted DesignVertrag reduces ambiguity and supports legitimate exploitation of the resulting design while protecting both parties.