In the world of design, the adage "time is money" couldn't be more true. Whether you're working with a graphic designer, web developer, or any other creative professional, the economics of having your shit together can have a significant impact on the success — and budget — of your project. Being prepared, organized, and clear in your expectations can save both time and money.
Be Prepared: Provide a Comprehensive Brief.
The importance of a well-prepared brief cannot be overstated. A comprehensive project brief should include all the necessary details, from project goals and objectives to target audience and visual preferences. By providing a clear, detailed brief, you reduce the need for the designer to guess, resulting in faster and more accurate work. This efficiency can save you both time and money, as revisions are often costly.
Don't Make the Designer Jump Through Hoops.
Designers are at their best when they can focus on their creative work, not administrative tasks. Avoid making your designer cross-reference information from various sources, extract data from scattered files, or piece together information from multiple emails. Streamline the process by organizing and centralizing the essential project information.
Have a Clear Vision or Goal.
A vague or constantly changing vision can lead to endless revisions and wasted time. Clearly define your project's goals, objectives, and desired outcomes from the outset. A strong vision will help guide the designer in the right direction, ensuring that their efforts are aligned with your expectations.
Stick to the Schedule.
Time is a valuable resource in the world of design. Delays can lead to rushed work, overtime costs, or missed deadlines. By adhering to the project schedule, you allow the designer to manage their time efficiently and produce high-quality work within the agreed-upon timeframe.
Outline What Is Most Important.
In every design project, some elements are more critical than others. Prioritize the aspects of your project that matter the most and communicate them clearly to your designer. This will help them allocate their time and resources effectively, delivering the most impact where it's needed.
Be Reasonable and Flexible.
While it's crucial to be clear about your expectations, it's also important to be reasonable and flexible. Design is a creative process, and sometimes adjustments are necessary. Striking a balance between holding your ground on essential aspects and being open to creative input can lead to a more harmonious and productive collaboration.
Effective Communication.
Open and transparent communication is key to the success of any project. Regularly check in with your designer, provide constructive feedback, and be responsive to their questions or requests. This keeps the project moving smoothly and minimizes any miscommunication or misunderstandings.
Out of Your Depth? Be Upfront.
You don’t need to be a superhero. Everybody has their weaknesses, and being forthcoming with your designer what your shortfalls are at the beginning can help them find solutions to problems you may not be aware of. It's perfectly okay not to have all the answers. In fact, it's better to acknowledge your limitations upfront. Communicate your uncertainties or lack of knowledge regarding specific design aspects or technical requirements. Being upfront can be incredibly valuable, as it allows the designer to provide guidance and fill in the gaps.
Designers are not just skilled creators; they are also knowledgeable guides. They can help you navigate the complex world of marketing and design by offering insights, recommendations, and explanations. By being open, you create an environment where the designer can step in as a collaborator. This approach can prevent speed bumps and costly revisions down the road, ultimately opening the door to a more successful project.
Having your shit together when working with a designer goes beyond just saving money. It's about optimizing the entire creative process to achieve the best results efficiently. By being prepared, clear in your expectations, and flexible in your approach, you not only save time and money but also ensure that the final design meets or even exceeds your vision.