My design process

Whilst every project is different and the process tailored to the needs of the job, my design process tends to follow the same basic structure:

The Brief

Every job starts with a brief. This phase will help me as a designer to gain a better understanding of the business I’m working with, the people involved and what the desired outcome is for the project. With these initial questions answered, we’ll collaborate to identify and confirm the project objectives, deliverables, budget and deadlines.

Research & Ideas

With the brief set, I now have the information I need to conduct research, look at the competition, recognise trends and fully immerse myself in the subject. From this, I can begin to work on initial concepts which I will then present to gather feedback whilst evaluating against the brief.

Development

By this stage the project is really taking shape and both myself and the client should have a relatively clear idea of the direction of the design. Concepts are further developed and brought to life. During the development stage, designs may be periodically shared with the client for feedback to keep the project moving in the right direction.

Final Designs

Once everybody involved in the project is happy with the designs we reach the ‘sign off stage’. This may involve supplying the final artwork to the client or sending it directly to the printer. It’s of utmost importance to me that the client goes away happy. All going well, the initial project could be the start of a much longer-term relationship.