How to Get the Best from Your Designer …!

At some point, every business is going to work with a graphic designer to create visual elements. No matter how the designs are going to be used, there are a few things to keep in mind when working with your designer, whether freelance or in-house, these things will help the process flow smoother …

1. Provide Clear Examples:
   In this case it’s true … a picture really is worth a thousand words. It is important to understand that the design process is a collaboration. The clearer you can communicate what you want to see, the better. It will improve all original design works throughout the entire process. It will also make your project flow smoother, be stress-free and save time in the long run.
   
   
2. Set Realistic Timelines:
   This part is as simple as the title … please understand that whatever your designer is creating for you takes time. Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither will your website. Also, don’t forget to share any potential obstacles upfront to ensure your designer will have a good understanding of the project.
   
   
3. Avoid Generalized Feedback:
   Specific examples and/or descriptions are very useful and appreciated by your designer. There is nothing constructive about “make it pop” or “I want more wow factor”. The best one I’ve heard yet is, “I’ll know it when I see it”. As a designer … what does that even mean? LOL! It’s one thing to give your designer all the creative freedom in the world but a whole other aspect asking them to read your mind. Try to be clear on what it is your looking for in your design.
   
   
4. Perfection is Impossible:
   A first draft is just that … a first draft. It is a simple starting point and the first step to the path to your visionary bigger picture. Perfection is nearly impossible on the first draft and this is where your input is crucial. Any good designer will be very appreciative for all your constructive criticism and suggestions.
   
   
5. Consider Every Component:
   In graphic design, there are 5 main components which are colour, fonts, images, layout and aesthetics. Commenting on each component individually when giving feedback can be more helpful to narrow down what you’d like to see on the next set of revisions. As a client, it can sometimes be hard to explain exactly what you have in mind or to know what you do and do not like but just saying “I don’t like it” isn’t going to be very constructive when it comes to making the necessary changes to get you what you want. Try breaking down the design components which will make it easier for you to identify what it is you “don’t like”.
   
   
6. Ask Questions:
   You are paying your designer for a creative process and their point of view but remember, you are still the boss. If an image or portion of the design confuses you, speak up and ask them to explain. If you feel confused, your audience may feel that way too …
   
   
7. Familiarize Yourself:
   It is not your job to know all the ins and outs of graphic design. That’s why you hired one. But it is extremely helpful to have a basic understanding of the design world and what types of skills are necessary for your project(s) before you get started. In reality, there is no one designer who is an expert in everything. Most designers have a couple of areas that they specialize in. Know what they are when you hire them. You wouldn’t expect a pastry chef to make you a gourmet hot dog …. So, don’t expect your commercial print designer to create motion graphics for your social media video!

The biggest thing to remember when working with your graphic designer is that their overall creativity and work ethics are just as important as their skills. There are not things you will find on any resume. So, the more hands-on you can be with them during the initial stages of your project(s), the better final deliverable and working relationship you will have.