I generally stick to selection two. As a self-publisher, I test to not put in place arbitrary deadlines for designing. I don’t mind providing a designer an additional 7 days if I know that they’re very good. Timeframe will not be imperative that you me, however it’s well worth tracking. https://cartooncharactersdesign.blogspot.com/2024/01/7-things-to-do-when-book-self.html