The Design Process

From Concept to Result

Hired a graphic designer? Check. Got a notebook overflowing with ideas? Check. It's a good start... but what exactly is involved in the graphic design process?

• Web Design
• Graphic Design

Once you've gotten through the process of choosing a graphic designer you’re confident in and communicated your vision for your design project, there will be some practical steps you’ll need to assist in to get your design from concept to final result.

Writing
Whether your designer is working on a brand new website design or an advertising campaign, you will be asked to provide the copy for your project. Think about the tone of your writing and ensure it will communicate your message effectively to consumers. Clearly say what you need to say. Make sure your work is edited and proofread by at least two pairs of eyes before you hand it over to your designer.

Preparing Your Copy
When you submit your copy to the designer, make sure you're clear about the format you are to use for your document. An emailed document or CD copy of your work should be sufficient, but some designers may require a printout of your copy.

Extra Material
You may also be asked to provide samples of your company's current promotional material, letterhead, logos and photographs. Make sure any photographs you send to your designer are legally allowed to be used for this purpose.

Contract
Once the design brief for your project has been discussed and confirmed with your graphic designer, you'll be asked to sign a contract to make the agreement binding. At this stage, you will discuss the cost estimate, time goals and the aims of the project. Any significant increase in cost from the estimate should only come about from a change in your requests or needs.

Cost
The price for a project may be negotiable. Cost will be dependent on factors such as the designer's level of experience and the complexity of the project. A written legally binding contract will avoid any misunderstanding over the costing of your project. Cost is usually by the hour, although for longer assignments a daily rate may be used.

Keep in Touch
Although a rough schedule will be outlined for completion of your project, you should keep in touch with your designer throughout this time. This is easily done via email or phone.

A happy ending
Once you've secured an effective design, your involvement with your graphic designer is over, but the life of your new corporate identity has only just begun. Good design really is an investment: it will allow you to present your business with pride, communicate with your target market in a straightforward way and align yourself with a powerful, effective and fresh brand.

Looking for more information? Find comprehensive information on New Zealand graphic designers in the NZS.com directory.

Website Design images from Flickr: pencils2, Technographica and Mac + Starbucks.