Agency request template

Creative approval signing request template

A creative approval captures a client's formal sign-off on artwork, copy or designs so production can proceed on the agreed version.

Send a creative approval request Browse all templates

What is a creative approval?

A creative approval is a recorded confirmation that the client has reviewed a specific creative asset, such as a design, ad, video or layout, and agreed to it as final. It pins down exactly which version was approved, which matters when files go to print, media or production.

For studios and agencies, creative approvals prevent costly mistakes. They establish that the client saw and accepted the work before it was produced, so if a change is needed afterwards, it can be handled as a new request rather than an argument about what was agreed.

When to use a creative approval

Signing off final artwork before it goes to print or media
Approving a design concept before production resources are committed
Confirming copy or messaging ahead of publication
Locking a specific creative version to avoid later confusion

What to include in a creative approval

Asset reference: the creative name and version so the right file is approved
Proof or preview: the exact artwork being signed off, not a draft
Approver details: the client contact authorised to approve creative
Approval scope: whether it covers print, digital, media or all uses
Decision and date: clear approve or decline, with the date recorded

Pros and cons of sending a creative approval as a signing request

Pros

Locks in the exact creative version that was approved
Helps avoid reprints or remakes caused by miscommunication
Dated record shows when sign-off was given
Tracking confirms the client actually opened the proof

Cons and things to watch

Approval covers the attached file only, not later edits
Colour or print results can differ from an on-screen proof
The wrong reviewer may approve without final authority
It does not transfer or confirm rights and licensing on its own

How to send a creative approval with Cosign

Upload the final proof and use preview to confirm it is the correct creative and version
Add the client approver as the signer and confirm they can sign off this work
Set a 7-day expiry, and apply password protection if the creative is confidential
Send, track opens and previews, and keep the completion receipt once the creative is approved

Creative approval request details

Email subject

Creative approval request

Default message

Please review the attached creative and approve it so production can proceed.

Signer setup

Client approver

Suggested expiry

7 days

Button label

Approve creative

Best fit

Agency teams

Creative approval FAQs

Is an electronic creative approval legally valid in Australia?

Electronic approvals are generally recognised in Australia under electronic transactions laws when the signer consents and is identified. The weight given to an approval depends on the situation, so seek professional advice for significant matters.

Does approving a proof guarantee the printed result?

No. On-screen proofs can differ from final print due to colour, paper and process. Note any print tolerances clearly and, where possible, supply a hard proof for colour-critical work.

Can search engines or others find the creative I send?

No. Cosign delivers each proof through a private link to the named approver, and files are not indexed by search engines. Only the recipient with the link can view it.

What if the client wants changes after approving?

Because the approval is tied to a specific version, later changes are best treated as a new request. Send a fresh approval for the revised creative to keep the record clean.

Does creative approval cover usage rights?

Not by itself. An approval confirms the client accepts the creative, but rights, licensing and usage terms should be set out separately. Seek professional advice for complex rights questions.