Letting Go of Source Files = Good Idea?

Letting Go of Source Files = Good Idea?

From Freelance to Founder by Millo

April 16, 2026 · 15 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the complexities of ownership and client relationships regarding design source files.

Kevin did a brand redesign for an old colleague two years ago — got paid, and moved on. Now the client's new marketing manager is asking for the original InDesign source files to update the brand guidelines internally. Kevin knows the owner, considers him a friend, and doesn't want to damage the relationship. But he also doesn't want to just hand over his work and forfeit any future opportunities. Preston and Clay dig into who really owns those files, what the law says versus what good business sense says, and how to turn a potentially awkward situation into goodwill — maybe even a Google review. Support our show sponsors → ⁠⁠https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors⁠⁠ Submit your own question → ⁠⁠https://freelancetofounder.com/ask⁠⁠ Check out Clay's business → ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://golinus.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People in this episode

Host: Preston

Topics covered

  • source files
  • client relationships
  • branding
  • business ethics

Keywords

  • InDesign
  • brand guidelines
  • goodwill
  • Google review

Mentioned in this episode

Products: InDesign

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