Unit 3 Design Process

How to follow a design process

A Design process is critical to follow to ensure all requirements are met during design.

When starting a design project, there are steps of the graphic design process to follow that will help to achieve the best results. Rather than jump straight into trying to create a final version, first research the topic, finalizing your content, starting with simple sketches and getting several rounds of approval on design.

Constant evaluation is very important to make sure everything meets the brief and client and customers needs. This helps to keep communication going which enables changes to be made easily.

Analyze the situation

Gathering information is the first step of the graphic

design process. Gather as much information as possible, this can be done by setting up a meeting with the client to discuss the work and fill in the design brief.

Filling in the brief

The brief will answer questions such as: who is the target audience, what is the message being portrayed, size and format, budgets, existing materials, deadlines, design guidelines etc.

This will give an overview of what the client needs and wants and the most important things to include. This can also be used a tick list to ensure all elements in the design are met.

Idea generation

Using all information given to generate, develop and communicate new ideas. Where an idea is the basic element.

Collect all Information and Create sketches.

Gather all information and produce a quick sketch to show what the intended plans are. This helps to visualise plans to a client.

Create and develop sketches

Develop an outline of the content and goal of the project. Include the dimensions and technical specifications. Very basic sketches to show layout and main elements. Create different variations of sketches and designs.

Send basic sketches to client to keep the communication and ask which designs to develop further.

Develop chosen ideas

Create more detailed sketches and research existing designs and formats. Gather as much inspiration and information. Brainstorm features of the designs. Create simple prototypes.

Testing and evaluation

Test that the prototypes meet all the needs outlined in the design brief and clients amendments. Evaluate the final design against the design brief like a tick list. Does it meet the requirements. Test it out on focus groups or volunteers.

Create final design

Putting all information and designs together create the final piece step by step so that the brief is followed accurately. Making sure to go over it carefully before sending final design to client.

INSPIRE

I found this article on one of my favorite design sites. It outlines some good points.

http://justcreative.com/2008/04/24/logo-design-process-of-just-creative-design/