On-spec

Describing work undertaken without a guaranteed payment or contract, with the hope of securing payment if the work is accepted by the client or publisher. This often involves creating content, designs, or prototypes at the freelancer's own risk, where remuneration is contingent on approval. It is a common practice in creative industries, such as writing, graphic design, and filmmaking, where professionals pitch ideas and invest time and resources upfront, hoping for a commission.

On-spec meaning with examples

• As a budding graphic designer, Sarah created a logo on-spec for a local bakery, hoping to impress them enough to secure a long-term contract. Despite her effort, the bakery chose a different design, leaving Sarah with unpaid work, a risk inherent with working on-spec.
• The aspiring novelist wrote the first three chapters of his book on-spec, submitting them to multiple literary agents. He hoped this would demonstrate his writing ability and secure a publishing deal. The response was mixed, but he persisted despite the financial risk of working on-spec.
• The filmmaker produced a short film on-spec to enter a film festival, believing it would showcase her talent and lead to funding for a feature-length project. Although it didn't win any awards, it generated interest from investors, partially vindicating her on-spec gamble.
• The freelance journalist researched and wrote an article on-spec about local environmental concerns, pitching it to several magazines. While only one accepted the piece, the experience helped build her portfolio and gain exposure, even though the work was initially undertaken on-spec.
• The composer created a musical score on-spec for a theatrical production, aiming to showcase his unique style and secure future commissions. While the play didn't utilize his music, the score itself, and the contacts he made proved worthwhile, even though it was originally produced on-spec.