FAQ
A few clear answers, before you commit.
Kikai is designed to feel simple on the surface and highly considered underneath. If you still need help after reading these, the next step is to post your project or join the roster.
General
What is Kikai?
Kikai is a curated marketplace for human-centred design. We connect companies with pre-vetted experts for workshops, audits, research, prototypes, and strategic design work.
What makes Kikai different?
We do not run an open marketplace. Instead of public bidding and endless profiles, we return a small, carefully matched shortlist based on scope, timing, and fit.
What kind of work is Kikai built for?
Kikai is built for high-trust design work: discovery workshops, UX audits, research sprints, prototype delivery, and broader strategic design support.
How fast does it work?
In most cases, we return matches within 12 to 24 hours.
For Companies
How do I get started?
Post a brief with your context, timeline, and budget. We review it, shortlist the right people, and guide the next step.
Do I need a perfect brief?
No. You can come to us with a well-defined scope or simply the problem you need solved.
Why not just hire directly?
Because speed matters, fit matters, and trust matters. Kikai helps you avoid the delay of agency procurement and the risk of unvetted freelance marketplaces.
Can I choose who I work with?
Yes. You review the shortlist and decide who feels right for the engagement.
Is this a job board?
No. Kikai is designed to feel private, selective, and high-trust — more curated roster than public marketplace.
For Talent
How do I join Kikai?
You apply to join the roster, and we review your background, experience, and fit before inviting you in.
Who is Kikai for?
Senior HCD professionals who want thoughtful briefs, premium engagements, and fewer low-value distractions.
Will I be competing in open bids?
No. Kikai is not built around public bidding or a race to the bottom.
How do matches happen?
We make introductions based on fit, availability, and the type of work required.
Can I set my own rate?
Yes. Transparent pricing is core to the model, and the expert day rate sits at the centre of it.
How Pricing Works
How is pricing calculated?
The expert sets the day rate, and Kikai adds a flat 12% service fee. Everything is shown upfront.
Are there hidden fees?
No. Pricing is designed to be legible and transparent before anyone commits.
Do I need a subscription?
No. Kikai is pay-per-hire. You only pay when you engage someone.
Why does Kikai charge a fee?
The fee supports vetting, matching, platform operations, and support. It is there to make the service trustworthy, not obscure.
We’ve Got You Covered
Whether you’re posting a project or completing one, Kikai is designed to give both sides more peace of mind.
Is there insurance cover?
Insurance is provided by one of the world’s most reputable, stable and innovative insurance brands, ask for details
Privacy
How is my information handled?
We collect only what is needed for matching: your brief, timeline, budget, and contact details. It is used to find the right expert and manage the engagement. No selling, no sharing beyond what is necessary.
Is privacy taken seriously?
Yes. Kikai follows the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). Our privacy policy — linked in the footer — explains exactly what we collect, how we use it, and your rights to access, correct, or delete it. Data is secure, compliant, and yours to control