Client defection in the design industry: a study of the causes, process and context of switching agencies

Vafeas, Mario; Hilton, Toni

Abstract

This paper explores the factors that cause client defection in the graphic design industry within the context of the business relationship in which it takes place. The paper examines the literature pertaining to defection, loyalty, relationship dynamics, service failure and service recovery. It highlights studies that demonstrate the financial benefits of customer retention while bemoaning the fact that few organisations seem to understand the importance of developing long-term relationships. A qualitative approach was adopted for the primary research. The findings show that the most common reasons for switching are dissatisfaction with either pricing or design quality. A new model of switching behaviour is proposed, together with a set of practical measures that design agencies can instigate to reduce the likelihood of defection. The implications of this study suggest that design agencies should encourage more active and co-operative participation in the relationship by clients.

Citation

Vafeas, M., & Hilton, T. (2002). Client defection in the design industry: a study of the causes, process and context of switching agencies. Design Journal, 5(1), 14-25. https://doi.org/10.2752/146069202789378431

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Mar 1, 2002
• Journal: The Design Journal
• Print ISSN: 1460-6925
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 5
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 14-25
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.2752/146069202789378431
• Keywords: client defection, client switching, design industry
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.2752/146069202789378431
• Additional Information: Additional Information : The full text attached to this record is not the final published version. This version can be found at: http://dx.doi.org/10.2752/146069202789378431