Sep 19 2011
Designers, design firms and studios are in abundance. So when you finally find one to work with it's a bit of a relief. But what happens to the relationship once it's past the honeymoon phase (i.e., introductions, pleasantries and post-contract signing)?
Perhaps obviously, there are things that both parties need to do in order to kepp the client-designer relationship healthy, thriving and on good terms. Especially during the development of your project. Here are some things you can do to make your designer love and appreciate you more.
Stick to the schedule
Typically your designer will have developed a project schedule (if not, that should be a warning flag) which should include tasks and milestones for not just themselves, but all involved people, including you. Sticking to that schedule will not only keep the project from falling behind, but will keep your designer active and excited about the project as a result of it continuously moving forward.
Provide detailed feedback
As reviews come around, a designer will look to you to make sure they're staying on point with what you discussed in the beginning. Be sure to be detailed and specific. Saying, "That shade of green doesn't mesh with our branding/identity", or "The design doesn't seem to fit with our other materials" is much more productive and constructive than saying, "It's not working."
Keep cool
Designers will undoubtedly make mistakes. We're human after all. But keep your cool. Instead, take a breather and simply be firm and professional. That will make your designer much more responsive to your concerns than going off on them as though they've created something that will destroy the world as we know it.
Be willing to compromise and adjust
There may be things you had set on before the design process began that just aren't going to work. As long as your designer can explain the thinking behind the change, be willing to listen and if appropriate, compromise. You hired them for their expertise, after all.
Ask questions
One of the ways good projects go bad is due to misunderstanding. A tried and proven way to avoid this is to ask questions. Not sure what your designer meant by line-spacing? Ask!
Keep communication open and clear
In addition to asking questions, be sure you're being open about your thoughts of the process and results you're seeing as you go. The "better late than never" mantra just does not work well in the design process. Instead, it'll cause you more grief and possibly increased costs.
Participation is key
In other words, don't leave in the middle of a project and expect it to be done when you get back. Because the end result will affect your business – and your bottom line – it's vital that you remain a participating member of the process. An absentee client causes designers frustration and decreased motivation and excitement for your project.