Embarking on a design project, whether it’s for a website, product, or brand, is an exciting endeavor. And realistically, it’s a little scary. Understanding the design process can significantly impact the outcome and your overall satisfaction with the final product. In this blog, we’ll uncover key insights that clients should know about the design process, helping to foster a collaborative and successful partnership with designers.
Clear Communication is Paramount
There is a reason we put this first. Effective communication is the bedrock of any successful design project. It’s crucial to articulate your vision, objectives, and expectations clearly from the outset. Be upfront about your desired timeline, the budget you have available, and any key deliverables like demo dates or fundraising efforts. Be open to providing feedback, not just about the design, but interactions you would like to see in meetings or information you expect to see. Likewise, be receptive to the designer’s suggestions and expertise. The best design projects are a two-way street.
The Importance of Research and Discovery
Great design is rooted in thorough research. Designers need to understand your business, target audience, competitors, and industry trends. This informs the design decisions and ensures that the final product aligns with your brand’s goals and values. Similarly, designers need to get customer feedback on their concepts from a handful of actual users. Not just your investors and not just the client. This benefits everyone involved and makes for a more desirable product.
Design is Iterative
The design process is not a linear path from concept to cash. It involves multiple build-measure-learn cycles, each building upon the previous one. Well, most of the time at least. Sometimes it’s one step forward and two steps back. However, this knowledge of what not to do is valuable too and should not be underestimated. Oftentimes, this knowledge can be applied to patent strategy, making it difficult for competitors to keep up. Regardless, this iterative approach allows for refinement and improvement of the design as things are learned, resulting in a more polished product. It can look messy, but skilled designers have spent years navigating this successfully.
Trust the Design Expertise
Designers are professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Trust in their creative abilities and be open to their suggestions. Remember, they are working towards creating a design that not only looks good but also fulfills its intended purpose. Ask lots of questions. But be ready to pivot if needed.
Patience is a Virtue
Design projects take time. Rushing through the process and cutting corners can lead to subpar results. Allow designers the necessary time to brainstorm, sketch, iterate, test, and refine. This patience will pay off in the form of a well-thought-out and meticulously crafted design.
Feedback Should be Specific and Constructive
When providing feedback, be specific about what you like or dislike and why. This helps designers understand your preferences and adjust accordingly. Avoid vague comments like “make it pop” or “I’ll know it when I see it” and instead, offer actionable insights. Why don’t you like it? Can you provide an example?
Consider the End User
Ultimately, the design is meant to resonate with your target audience. Trust the designer’s ability to create a user-centric experience. They consider factors like usability, accessibility, and user behavior to ensure the final product meets the needs of your audience. Unfortunately, Voice of Customer (VOC) is often avoided in the early stages of a design, being cited as “too expensive” or “I already know.” Far too many companies have tried to sell a product without validating it first with a diverse pool of end users. It is far cheaper and faster to make a design change early on. Skip VOC at your peril.
Be Open to Evolution
As the design process unfolds, there may be moments of unexpected inspiration or insights. Be open to allowing the design to evolve naturally. Embracing change can lead to even more innovative and effective outcomes. Simplifications can lead to more robust and desired features.
Understand the Value of Design
Great design adds immense value to your brand. It communicates your identity, establishes trust, and sets you apart from competitors. Recognize that investing in design is an investment in the success and longevity of your brand.
Conclusion
Collaborating with a designer should be a partnership based on trust, communication, and mutual respect for each other’s expertise. By understanding these key aspects of the design process, clients can and should play an active role in shaping the outcome. Remember, a well-informed client is an invaluable asset to any design project, leading to a more successful and impactful result.
info@flyingpigdesignsllc.com
(720) 627-7778
555 Alter St. STE 19-D Broomfield, CO 80020
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