Getting along with your designer

Written on the 26 July 2013 by Kellie Williams

Graphic designers and their clients are often notorious for not communicating in the same way.

Sometimes it is the difference between a visual- and a non-visual thinker (the right or left brainer!).

Other times it’s just not sharing the same ‘language’. This lack of effective communication can waste time, money, creativity and have everyone frazzled. In order to be sure you are both speaking clearly, sometimes a bit of ‘to and fro’ is needed. Here are some helpful hints to keep the lines of communication open:

• Visual representation is important. If you can’t draw find a picture that speaks for you. This can help both you and your designer to start on the same page.
• Describe the ‘feeling’ you would like your design to inspire. Think of words to convey this feeling such as fresh or delicate or the type of design you are looking for - such as vintage, organic or polished. But be careful - asking for something to be innovative yet corporate can be quite a challenge!
• Have a brainstorming session with team members. Let loose and don’t be afraid to come up with something wacky - you can always tone it down. Use a white board or notepad and send a copy to the designer.
• Start a mood-board - very helpful for larger projects. Paint colour books from a hardware store are great (free) colour inspiration too.
• Let go! In order for you to get the most out of your design experience you should be willing to let the artist loose a little and be open to new ideas.

And always see the creation of a design as a process. It can take time, a bit of inspiration and patience, but when the end results are exactly what you wanted, it will be worth it!

Having trouble with words? Email me for a list of descriptive words. Head to our Contact Us page and type "descriptive words" in the message box.

This article was published in Zoom in Business Magazine Issue 10.