Standardize – Standardize - Standardize

As ‘scapers we’re constantly trying to show off our design skills be it in regular interior work or Holiday.  That’s why we often put in the wrong plant (light too low but it looks good) or end up with tons of various gold ribbon (but this one has a stripe and this one has a dot and this one has a star).  Wrong plants, too much different product – both lead to the same thing – higher costs, lower profit.

 
Now my sense of it is that, yes, there are times that it must be this or that specific item but those times are few and far between.  It’s our own boredom or ego that says it has to be this or that and nothing else will do.  Truth is most clients are more interested in green – healthy – lush foliage than a specific type and gold ribbon is gold ribbon with or without the stripe or dot.  We’re the ones who back ourselves into corners and we’re the ones who have to apologize when the specific ribbon we’d promised didn’t get delivered.

The 80/20 Rule
My point is – remember the old 80/20 rule – 80% of the plants and containers you use are the tried and true workhorses.  Plants that survive different techs, low light and still hold up.  Gold ribbon and ornaments that work whether its on an ivory and gold tree, red and gold, toy themed, or fairy woodland.

 If you try to make each of your designs totally different from each other – you will lose money.  You just can’t absorb the additional costs in time, replacement, and inventory.  So, standardize at least the proverbial 80% and save the 20% or less for your design ”zebras”.  And, if you are going to raise the bar for that really avant garde project – charge for it, you’re worth it.  My suggestion?  Give your client options.  Option One – Great design, great service.  Option Two – Incredible design, higher end containers, intense Holiday themes, and, of course, still great service.  Even consider offering three options since clients usually opt for a middle ground, it’s just human nature.

Three Options - Does it take extra time to do this?  Of course it does, but, hey, business is not exactly booming, so make the extra effort.  See what happens and let me know how it works out.