There are many steps to create the perfect design. Everyone has their own method and way of doing their projects. When starting a new design project, there are steps of the graphic design process to follow that will help you to achieve the best results. Rather than jump right into a project to try to create a final version, you can save yourself time and energy by first researching the topic, finalizing your content, starting with simple sketches and getting several rounds of approval on designs.
Process: A series of actions, changes, or functions bringing about a result. But what is the process of producing great memorable visual designs? From my experience from talking to others, and by looking at myself, this is the process to which many of us forget, or just plain don’t have time for. When you are working on a design, do you have time for the entire process? Most designers are working at the speed of light, multi-tasking to no end. If we stop and take the appropriate steps the result will be a great design.
Through my experiences I have been battling to understand the importance of following through the entire design process. I am guilty to say that I mostly just want to jump right into the project and spit it out fast. But I’ve noticed that if I take the time to follow these steps I actually save time and the end result is better. My objective is not to encourage you to practice this process. But to recognize that you may be missing out on your entire process. That your work could potentially be suffering as a result.
Like I said before, everyone has a different processes or method, but overall they are close in the fundamental nature. This just gives me a guideline to follow. It’s simply taking the time to each design problem.
The Process:
1. Define problem
2. Get parameters/specifications
3. Research (client history, demographics, competition, market, technologies)
4. Brainstorm, word list
5. Thumbnail sketches
6. Collaborate
7. Digital full scale mockups (visual exploration)
8. Critique
9. Finalize art
10. Problem solved
Every time I work on a new project or design I try to go back to the basics. You need to start with a good foundation, have strong fundamentals, and spend time working through problems. Sketching, brainstorming, and collaborating. Don’t just clamor to the computer like ants to a piece of candy on the ground. Give yourself plenty of time to go over every angle, every element, and every detail. Being able to sleep at night knowing you’ve done all you could.
When following these steps, be sure to finish each one before moving on to the next. If you conduct solid research, you know you can create an accurate outline. With that you have the information necessary to sketch out some ideas. My work has grown as a result of stopping and taking the time to cover all the steps. Take time for the process. Your clients will thank you. Just don’t bill them for all that extra time.
I really hope you enjoyed this post and if there are any steps you feel I missed or if you have anything to add please leave them below in the comments.
