Myck

So, how’s this all going to start?
Here’s a quick overview of the steps taken throughout a design project.

The design brief

Compiled from a Q&A session with the client, a design brief clarifies what needs to be done, keeps the project on track, and saves time for everyone involved. Areas considered include corporate profile, market position, current situation, communication background, communication message, target market, objectives, schedule and deadline.

Research, brainstorming

Time is spent reviewing the brief and asking followup questions before beginning more thorough research and brainstorming. Taken into account are a client’s competitors, market trends, product or service differentiators, the history of the business, the future, the current brand, and brand aspirations.

Sketching

Using a pencil and paper helps generate a strong set of possible directions. The alternative of a mouse and computer adds an extra level of restriction that hinders creativity. Most sketches are eventually made redundant, but the point is to explore as many directions as possible before narrowing it down to two or three of the strongest ideas.

Rendering

Those effective ideas are then developed in digital format. The rendering stage involves transferring these options to Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and/or InDesign and printed to PDF for the presentation.

The presentation

Each design is shown in context using digital mock-ups (i.e., in situations where the design will be used upon project completion — on a phone app, billboard, signage, clothing, etc.). Then it’s over to the client to consider the designs and prepare feedback based upon how the ideas fulfil the brief.

Tweaks and finishing touches

This involves finalising an option or making revisions until exactly the right direction is reached. The aim is to create a solution that visually communicates the message from the brief to the target market that results in the objective being met or exceeded.

Approval

Approval must be made via email or in-person with a reference to the approved version of the artwork. Once approved the design will then be finalised ready for despatch, ensuring all colours, fonts and images meet the required guidelines.

Artwork supply

The artwork is supplied via email and/or made available for download. Specific file requests can be catered for. If the final artwork requires further work from another supplier, i.e. printers. The artwork will be set up to the required specifications and sent there directly.

After service

The offering doesn’t end once artwork is supplied and a client pays the final instalment. Should any design-related questions crop-up, I’m on hand to provide an answer or to offer assistance with design application.