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Losing bidders in contests are not paid for their designs. Opposition to the "spec" design business model spurred a "NO!SPEC" campaign by some designers. Winning bids are typically at lower rates than established designers charge, leading to further friction. Critics also said the fast turnaround time of contests could lower the quality of work. Other designers, however, have said they successfully used the platform as a business development tool, leading to long-term relationships with new clients. About one-third of contest winners are hired for follow-on work, according to the company. The company defends contest model as facilitating equal access to design projects, leading to more merit-based hiring. As part of its response to the criticism, the company also established a mentoring network for more experienced designers to coach newcomers on the skills necessary to win bids.