Make the most of the client-designer relationship, and your budget
A client might label their designer as either a professional or an amateur. But, did you know that designers classify their clients the same way?
Even if you have limited (or no) experience working with a professional graphic designer, you can still act like a pro.
The key characteristics of a professional client are:
- They are well-prepared.
- They communicate effectively and clearly.
- They trust that the designer is an expert in their field.
The Bailiwick Company wrote a terrific post: Working with Graphic Designers: Get the Most for Your Money.
Here’s an overview of their tips:
- Finalize copy before handing it over to the design team.
- Do not make changes piecemeal.
- Be specific about what you’re seeking in a design.
- If you’re uncertain about what you want, trust the designers.
- Identify your audience and your objective.
- Collaboration is great, confusion isn’t.
- Let the professionals do their job.
- The design process should not cause angst.
Read the full article here.
Piecemeal changes, confusing emails, etc. are essentially distractions from the task at hand – to create beautiful, effective work. A process full of distractions is headed for disaster. Expect the budget to take a hit as well.
Share your thoughts in the comments:
What else can clients (or designers) do to keep the project on track and the budget down?
