I subscribe big time to the idea that you focus on what you do best and outsource the rest.

I have a great team of designers and developers that work with me, and I’m continually adding to those partnerships.

When I add a designer or developer as a partner, I go through a very precise vetting process. Today, I found out that one of the designers I’m vetting ripped off a site considerably. I’m all for inspiration, not copying.

Things are working out well with the situation, I just want to encourage you to keep an eye on what’s going on with your partnerships. You don’t want to be the brunt of a lawsuit or bad PR.

When it comes to designer partnerships, here are a few ways to keep everything above board.

• Create partnerships. A partnership by nature requires respect - not just respect to you, but you need to respect your partners. Just because you’re the one paying doesn’t mean they don’t deserve your respect. They will appreciate that and act in kind.

• Promote communication. I let my partnerships know that communication is my top priority (followed by quality and efficiency). Make sure they know that every thing’s better when they communicate with you.

• Get the source files. If they’re creating a design for you, don’t hesitate to get the source files from them so you know they actually created the design. If you ever had a problem with someone saying you copied their design, at least you did your due diligence.

If you have experience in creating partnerships for a lean and productive company, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the topic.