The Design Process
By Daye Salander
It often seems there is a dark curtain that blocks out the world to what goes on behind the scenes in graphic design. In a nutshell, what designers do is to create a spoken message or concept and turn it into a graphical representation of that message or concept. They can create feelings or insight or perspective through their work.
The designer does not think up the slogan or determine what the message is, they only interpret it. They ponder what "hope" looks like or "stability" or "economical". They consider things such as color, weight, dimensions, graphics, and light, as well as the end use of the design. They are often directed on the demographics of the end user as well as insight on what direction to take but the concept is theirs alone.
The end client - you - doesn't see the first steps. The real initial layouts that are inspired by the message, product, or concept. These are internal and are discussed freely making sure they are a perfect fit with the project focus. Changes are made until it does fit with the project focus.
Before the client sees it, the presentation is considered. The graphic representation will be interpreted for the client with insight as to why things were approached the way they were and why that is beneficial to the client. They "pitch" you the designs, pointing out all the reasons that their angle is "right".
Once at that point, you do see behind the curtain but what happens before that is the most important part of the process. The creative process of turning your idea, your concept, your message...into a new vehicle to deliver it.
If you have a design project that we can help with, pleae call us at 425.397.8885 or contact us via email.
