Design Process
Every designer has their own specific design process. It can vary based on what is being designed as well. For example, UX / UI designers will need to test their design and go back to make changes as necessary, then retest again. Even once their designs go live (an app, for example), they will need to make improvements as they get feedback and run into issues with the design.
That being said, my main design focus is on brand development. In its simplest form, the process is a series of four phases: (1) Identify Problem / Need, (2) Research / Discovery, (3) Production, and (4) Fine-Tuning / Finalizing. Obviously these can be further broken down depending on the designer, the needs of the client, and the project. Generally speaking, when you work with me, this is the basic process:
Identify Problem / Need
First, we chat so that I could get an idea about what services you are seeking, learn about your business and you, and see if we are a good fit. Our working relationship has to be built on trust and respect. If there is something you are looking for and I know it is something I don’t do, I will be upfront with you about it. If I can, I have no problem referring you to someone who can help meet your needs. This first phase is all about determining what your business needs are and how I can help you meet those needs.
Research / Discovery
If, after the consultation, we are on the same page and decide to move forward with your project, I will send you a questionnaire to complete. I may also do some basic research, but if you know the market and industry well, providing me with that information will be paramount.
Production
Once I feel that I’ve gathered enough information, I’ll get started on sketching and planning. I don’t just sketch the three concepts I present you with; I sketch as many as I can and then narrow them down to the ones I think best suit your needs. I will always present you with at least 2-3 well-defined, different concepts, not variations of the same concept.
I refine the narrowed concepts so that I can present them to you as a finished product, however, that doesn’t mean the work is complete. That’s where you come in.
You’ll review the concepts and decide which you like best. For the most part, you’ll have three options:
Pick one as-is
Pick one that we could further refine to your liking
Tell me what you like from several of the concepts and I can put it together into one
Fine-Tuning / Finalizing
From there, you and I will collaborate to getting your design just the way you like. The number of revisions and amount of back-and-forth between you and I will depend on the project. A full rebrand, for example, will be more time intensive than the design of just a business card.
When we both feel that the design is right where it needs to be, I’ll finalize your files and email them to you within 1-2 business days.
The length of the entire process depends on several factors:
My availability
Your availability and responsiveness
The complexity of the project
The best thing to do if you have any specific questions that weren’t answered here or in my FAQs is to contact me. Consultations and phone calls are by appointment only. Feel free to make an appointment or reach me via email.
Looking forward to working with you!