Having trouble communicating with your graphic designer? Not to worry, here are a few simple things your graphic designer wants you to know. Hint: they are not speaking a different language!
Communication is key when working with a graphic designer. It will establish a better working relationship and ensure a more efficient process when working on a design project. Here are a few key things to consider the next time you are trying to communicate with your designer:
Examples not lists
When sending your “laundry list” of must haves and short details of what you want your design to have, be sure to include a few examples of designs that you have seen and like. Showing visual examples of other designs and what elements you liked for each one gives them a better idea of what you are looking for overall.
Visual communication
Words like “cool” and “fun” all have one thing in common – they are all subjective and entirely meaningless when using them as direction for a design. Everyone may have a different idea of what these general words mean when interpreted in a design. Instead show visual elements of what you think looks “cool” or “fun.” This gives your designer a better understanding of the visual elements and style you like which allows them to work faster and with clearer direction.
Likes and dislikes
It is easy to tell someone what you do want in a design but your list of ‘don’t wants’ can be just as helpful to your designer. Let them know if there are any visual elements, styles, colors, etc. that you would like them to stay away from. Again, visual examples and elements are very helpful!
Ask questions
Don’t assume your designer knows everything about your project. Communicate with detail the purpose of the project to the designer to give them a better idea of what you are wanting. If you are uncertain about how something works or what you would need to give to your designer, don’t be afraid to ask. There is no such thing as a silly design question. Designers appreciate that you are wanting to know more about their process and want to give them as much information as possible.
If you use all of these or even just one of these four key tips on how to communicate more effectively with your designer, this will help greatly in your design process. Your designer will soak up as much information you provide them allowing them to create the project you hoped for. Practice makes perfect but little by little you can learn the design lingo and communicate effectively with your favorite designer.
