Problem
An agency subcontracts part of the work at a lower rate without informing the creator, creating questions about responsibility when quality or delivery slips.
Solution
Root Cause / Diagnostic:
Undisclosed subcontracting breaks transparency and introduces communication bottlenecks between the creator's vision and the actual timeline editor. When technical errors or stylistic regressions occur, accountability dissolves because the creator cannot communicate directly with the execution talent.
Actionable Fix:
1. Insert a 'Subcontracting and Key Personnel' clause requiring written client authorization prior to assigning any editing or post-production tasks to third-party contractors.
2. Mandate that any approved subcontractor sign an identical NDA, adherence to channel style guides, and participate directly in review communication channels (e.g., Slack or Frame.io).
3. Designate the primary agency lead as legally and financially liable for all QC failures, with strict delivery SLAs tied to agency invoices.
Pro Tip:
Demand named editor assignment in long-term editing contracts to guarantee consistent creative pacing, visual tone, and direct communication channels.
Undisclosed subcontracting breaks transparency and introduces communication bottlenecks between the creator's vision and the actual timeline editor. When technical errors or stylistic regressions occur, accountability dissolves because the creator cannot communicate directly with the execution talent.
Actionable Fix:
1. Insert a 'Subcontracting and Key Personnel' clause requiring written client authorization prior to assigning any editing or post-production tasks to third-party contractors.
2. Mandate that any approved subcontractor sign an identical NDA, adherence to channel style guides, and participate directly in review communication channels (e.g., Slack or Frame.io).
3. Designate the primary agency lead as legally and financially liable for all QC failures, with strict delivery SLAs tied to agency invoices.
Pro Tip:
Demand named editor assignment in long-term editing contracts to guarantee consistent creative pacing, visual tone, and direct communication channels.