What Information Does Your Graphic Designer Need?
While it may seem at times like graphic designers have supernatural powers, the truth is, there’s no magic wand that can easily bring a client’s vision to life with the flick of a wrist.
In truth, the design process is somewhat of a team effort. In order for the process to go as smoothly and efficiently as possible, the client should be prepared to provide the designer with information needed to produce a design that’s in line with their expectations.
Every graphic designer may work a little differently and have their own process, but for the most part, these are the things you should be prepared to discuss with your designer before you begin any project.
Branding
Do you have an established brand? If so, you’ll want to provide the designer with some examples of the brand along with existing logos, colors, taglines, and font names (otherwise known as brand standards). Branding is crucial for recognition in the marketplace and should be kept consistent across all marketing platforms including print and digital. No matter what type of project the designer is working on, they’ll want to ensure the finished design fits within your brand standards.
If you don’t have an existing brand, the first project will likely be to create one, even if its simple. If you need to create a brand, it will be important to provide the designer with some details about your business, including your target audience, your company values, your products and services, desired color families and font styles. Your designer will want to know what type of vibe you want to portray in your branding.
Purpose
Design processes may differ based on the use of the piece. Settings for digital design vary from those used in print designs. To ensure that the project goes as smoothly as possible, you’ll want to let your designer know in advance how the finished piece will be used. If you’re designing an ad, for example, you’ll likely need one type of file to use online and a different type of file to use in print. Sizes and specifications are also important. A file that works for a print ad may not necessarily work as an online ad. Be clear about how you plan to use the designs right from the start so your designer can be sure to provide the right file types and sizes.
Content
Do you already know what text you want to include in the design? If so, provide this information to the designer in the exact format you want it to appear so they can copy and paste it into their design files. This helps reduce the chance of error, especially in text-heavy projects. Your designer will check for spelling errors and typos, but at the end of the day, it’s the client’s responsibility to provide the correct content and review it for any errors.
If you already have graphics or images that you want to use in your design, provide them to the designer, along with the permission or license to use them. If you aren’t sure exactly what images or graphics will be used, be prepared to explain the look and feel you’re envisioning so that the designer can put together some mockups for your approval.
Budget and Turnaround Time
Be prepared with a budget in mind before you begin a project. Once you discuss the details of your project, your designer will provide you with a quote that will involve design time and any additional costs if needed, like printing or stock photography. Your designer should also be able to tell you how much time they’ll need to complete the design project. Keep in mind that projects with quick turn times often incur a rush charge.
Once you agree on a price and timeframe for the project, which may require signing a contract or proposal, and once you have provided all the content and branding elements required for the project, the designer can begin creating one or more drafts for your approval.
Have a design project you’re excited to get working on? Give us a call to get the process rolling!