Royalties are a small price to pay for creativity

We once asked 30 users of product design across Europe what they wanted from consultancies. The answer was always the same: creativity and innovation.

We also asked them if they would be happy to reward that creativity in line with the success of the product. They responded with a unanimous “No”.

It is very difficult to sell the concept of royalties (News Analysis, DW 8 October), but the objections are always emotional rather than logical. A royalty based on sales is totally fair to both parties.

The comment that “designers end up being underpaid or grossly overpaid” only makes sense if you pay according to how long the job takes.

It is the idea that has the value. If the product is amazingly successful and the designer receives a (small) percentage, how can they be “grossly overpaid”?

David Raffo

Chairman

ISOS

David@raffo.com