As Asaadi Graphics has grown and evolved over the years, something that I have tried to keep consistent is how I communicate with my clients. Being a designer, it is my goal to be thorough, collaborative and transparent when communicating.
Anytime we begin a new project, it is crucial for me to have an understanding of your vision. There are 3 phases to our process.
PHASE 1: Collecting Information
I ask all clients to fill out a questionnaire, which generates thoughts, ideas and inspirations. These questions are intentionally designed to guide you as the client and allow me as the designer, to present you with a creative solution.
PHASE 2: The Design Process
When the contract has been signed off and a retainer has been paid, the creative process will commence. I will produce initial sketches and designs for Round 1. Unless specified otherwise, each project will include a total of 3 revisions.
PHASE 3: Feedback and Revisions
Below is a list of guidelines I'd recommend for clients to review prior to sending each round of feedback.
1. Be specific
Over-communicating here is WELCOMED.
Remember, design is subjective. What "stands out" to you and what "stands out" to the designer could be two different things. You might think "stands out" means brighter colors. I might think "stands out" means bigger and bolder fonts. Having to guess can cause further confused so being specific is always appreciated. What is it that you don't like about the design? Is it the font? The colors? The imagery?
Bad Feedback: It needs more pop.
Good Feedback: The colors might be a bit muted for our young audience. A brighter color scheme might appeal to them and be more on brand.
2. Provide Examples
I love when clients send me photo, links to other websites or instagram profiles. Not because I want to interpret those designs, but because it gives me a visual reference to better comprehend what you are imagining instead of a vague description that I could misinterpret.
Bad Feedback: This isn’t what I imagined “bold and trendy” would look like.
Good Feedback: This isn’t what I imagined “bold and trendy” would look like. Here’s an example of what I had in mind. The large type and lots of white space on this site is in line with my vision.
3. Ask Questions with direction
A lot of the time, clients will include questions in their feedback to better understand why certain design decisions were made. Asking thoughtful questions creates a dialogue which I am always happy to answer.
When it comes to design feedback, there are no silly questions. Inquiring shows the designer that you value their opinion and that you’re invested in the project. Design decisions are intentional; therefore, each choice was made for a specific reason to visually communicate something.
Bad Feedback: *crickets*
Good Feedback: I’m used to seeing websites with the menu at the top of the page. Is there a reason you chose to put it on the left?
To Recap:
Whether you are a returning client or we are working together for the first time, collaboration through communication is necessary. Effective feedback can turn a good design into a great design, one that you absolutely love!
Keep these tips in mind when providing insight after you've received a round of revisions. In order to avoid exceeding the designated amount (most often 3 rounds), be mindful upon when emailing your thoughts!
Have other questions, feel free to email me: hello@asaadigraphics.com?