Top Three Tips for Working with a Graphic Designer
Posted on Tue, Sep 07, 2010
By Shawn Henderson, Graphic Designer
Since most of us are not mind readers, communication between two people can often be challenging. And taking the time to walk to an office down the hall or pick up the phone for a quick chat seems to have become “old fashioned”, with so much of our attention fixated on using emails and texting.
While in many respects these forms of quick communication do make our lives easier, in certain instances—namely, the communication between a designer and the client or team — they can cause unneeded complications.
With that in mind, here are a few tips on working with the designer.
1. Get the full story on the job.
“Make the logo bigger” Sometimes a direction like this is not enough information. Bigger than what? Is the visual goal to have the logo overshadow everything else on the envelope or page or do you just want it bumped up a point or two. As a designer, my job is to devise a plan based on the directions provided by the account team, and then create a visual solution to carry out that plan. Doing this requires that I have a complete understanding of what the plan is and what the overall design is meant to convey.
Valuable time can be wasted if the designer is not clear on what needs to be accomplished.
2. Reach out and touch someone: pick up the phone, or come pay a visit.
“Say whaaaaat!” Even though modern day technology has blessed us with email, texting and socializing online, person-to-person conversations are still the best form of communication when it comes to clarifying specific directions. Whether you walk down to my office for a quick face-to-face or make a phone call, either option is faster and usually easier than sending a string of emails back and forth.
3. Include the designer from the beginning.
Touchdown! What is a kick-off? At first, I thought it was an invitation to be part of a Fantasy Football league. Since then I have obviously learned that a kick-off is a meeting to discuss the particulars of a project—including the design and ultimate final concept.
I have come to realize just how valuable kick-offs are in ensuring that the designer understands the visual goal from stage one. This helps the project runs smoothly from the beginning and can be a great time saver.
What are your top tips for creating a successful working relationship with designers or other team members? All these tips are applicable with all your team members!
