Anyone have experience art buying for DAM workflows? I’m feeling a bit out of my element.

I work for a smallish agency that was recently acquired by a larger network. Today, I found myself on a multi-agency call with a Fortune 100 company to talk about file management. I felt out of my element and basically kept my mouth shut the whole time. I didn't really feel qualified to ask questions on the call.

The way they handle licensing is different than I am used to—the agencies just put in a ticket for an image, and the client-side art buyers handle all the negotiations and rights purchasing. Everything goes into their own system.

My other clients don't have that kind of scale, but I have two right now that are trying to build out their own Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems. I’m trying to figure out how to navigate those conversations without sounding like I’m winging it.

I’m looking for some help on how to handle art buying for multi-agency clients where I have to plan for usage beyond the specific project in front of me.

How do you guys approach the licensing "ask" when you know other agencies will eventually need the files?

How do you handle the hand-off so the client actually owns the rights and doesn't run into legal trouble?