What is a Virtual Design Assistant (VDA)?
A Virtual Design Assistant (VDA) is a design professional who provides interior design and architectural support services remotely, through the use of technology such as email correspondence, video conferencing, computer-aided design software and online project management tools. VDA’s are typically skilled in some or all of the following services:
Space planning
Drafting
Technical detailing
Renderings
Conceptual design
Color theory
Furniture, fixture and equipment sourcing
Presentation layouts (mood boards, concept boards, etc.)
To see the VDA services that I offer here at SNPC Design, click here.
Virtual Design Assistants are often used by Interior Designers and Architects who do not have the time or resources to accomplish their workloads successfully. By working with a Virtual Design Assistant, designers and architects can save time and money while still providing their clients with high-quality services. In addition, virtual design assistants can help designers and architects to reach a wider range of clients, as they are not limited by geographical boundaries.
So, what are some things to consider when looking to collaborate with a Virtual Design Assistant?
Time zones - A VDA can be an extension of your business, but due to the remote nature of the work, these assistants might be located all over the country. Consider if time zones will impact the work you are considering collaborating on. Talk to your VDA about working hours and if they can meet your deadlines.
Professional Stamps - Communicate with your VDA on what your expectations are before starting any drafting or construction document scope. Most VDA’s are experienced design professionals (and some are licensed architects or interior designers!) but since VDA’s are an extension of your business, the drafting and construction work they do for will likely not be stamped for permitting needs.
Face of your business - Consider how you would like to collaborate with the VDA. Will this person play a behind the scenes role, or will the task you need them to accomplish require them to interact with your clients, contractors, sales representatives, or other extensions of your business? You may find that some virtual design assistants specialize the types of services they offer and may fall into one of these two categories.
Communication - Consider how you would like to communicate with your virtual design assistant. Do you love communicating through email? Video chat? Do you need a weekly meeting to discuss tasks or are your tasks project specific and only require monthly check ins? These are all great questions to ask yourself before reaching out to a VDA. A professional VDA should follow your lead on how you would like to communicate and offer suggestions if they feel a particular communication style is not working for them.
Overall, a VDA is a highly valuable team member for any Interior Designer, Architect, or other creative professional. In today's fast-paced world, time is a precious commodity. A VDA can save their client hours upon hours by taking on many of the tedious tasks that are necessary to complete a project. This can free up the designer to focus on the creative aspects of the project, resulting in a more efficient and effective workflow. In addition, a VDA can help to ensure that all necessary details are accounted for, preventing costly mistakes or delays further down the road. Simply put, a VDA is an invaluable asset that can make any design team more efficient and successful.
Hey there! My name is Samantha Peters and I am an expert VDA. My specialty is providing virtual design assistance to independent designers and architects across the country who want to amplify the professionalism of their business.
It is important that my VDA clients are ready to unlock the potential held within their business. Let me help you, take the stress out of your business!
