Revisions are counted by rounds: each phase usually allows 2-3 rounds. One round means the client compiles all feedback once and the designer makes changes accordingly, rather than counting every small tweak separately.
Quotes often detail pricing but leave the revision section vague. Problems surface once designs are delivered: does this change exceed the limit? Is it a revision or a new feature? The following clarifies the most disputed points.
How Revision Rounds Are Actually Counted
First, align terminology. Projects are divided into stages such as style drafts, homepage drafts, and inner page drafts. Each stage comes with a set number of revision rounds, commonly 2-3 rounds.
The key is the definition of one round. A fair method is for the client to list all desired changes at once and hand them to the designer for a single update. Scattered verbal requests force repeated file access and easily lead to arguments.
Write the rule “one round equals one consolidated feedback” into the quote or contract. This protects both sides and encourages clients to submit clear, complete requests.
Reasonable Revision Clauses vs. Clauses to Watch
Not all revision clauses are equal. The table below compares good and risky wording for reference before signing.
| Item | ✅ Reasonable Clause | ❌ Clause to Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Rounds stated | Clearly states “N rounds per phase” | No mention of number or only “reasonable changes” |
| Revision vs. new request | Lists what counts as revision or new scope | Boundary left blank for later interpretation |
| Extra charge method | States per-round or hourly rate after limit | No mention until extra fees are demanded |
| Feedback format | Requires one consolidated written submission | Allows scattered verbal instructions |
| Acceptance definition | States clear acceptance criteria | Uses “until satisfied” with no objective standard |
Warning: phrases like “revisions until satisfied” or “unlimited revisions” sound generous but lack objective completion criteria, causing prolonged disputes. Clear, limited rounds are more responsible than vague unlimited promises.
The Most Disputed Line: Revision vs. New Request
This is the core of revision conflicts. Clarifying the line prevents most disputes.
Revision means adjustments within the agreed scope, such as changing button color, adjusting font size, swapping block positions, or editing text and images.
New request means work beyond the original quote, such as adding extra pages, login systems, language versions, or dynamic content management.
The former affects presentation with fixed workload and should be covered by agreed rounds. The latter adds real development time and should be quoted separately.
How Extra Charges Should Be Calculated
Extra charges occur when rounds are exceeded or new features are added. Two common methods exist:
- Fixed per-round fee: a set amount for each additional round. Easy to predict but same price regardless of effort.
- Hourly rate: charged by actual time spent. Fairer but harder to estimate in advance.
Neither is perfect. The key is to state the chosen method and unit in writing beforehand. Leaving extra charges undefined invites on-the-spot pricing disputes.
Common Pitfalls and Disputes
Common traps include verbal instructions without records, fragmented feedback counted as one round, vague “until satisfied” wording, new features disguised as revisions, and lack of clear acceptance checkpoints. All stem from missing written boundaries and defined milestones.
Practical Recommendations Before Signing
Use this checklist before signing: consolidate feedback once, keep all confirmations in writing, define rounds and scope upfront, and recognize that clear rules protect the process for both parties.
Conclusion: Agree on Rules Early to Save Effort Later
Revisions are a normal part of design work. Problems arise not from needing changes but from unclear rules. Remember three points: put rounds and boundaries in writing, consolidate feedback and confirm milestones, and define extra-charge methods in advance. Companies willing to clarify these terms before signing are usually the easiest to work with.
