What have designers done to make it possible to do what they love? I noticed a few patterns over the years.
- Visualize – create in your mind what you are trying to design and solve, and share it with others. Be expressive in your designs, and then communicate the experience to your audience that is meaningful to them. Most of the clients I have worked with never know what they really want. The response I usually get is, “I don’t know what I want, but I know what I don’t want… once I see it”. It’s our job to show them what they can’t see.
- Don’t be Complacent – dare to try something new. It’s a designer’s job to provide the best solution that will solve a need or problem – this requires stepping out of your comfort zone if you want to really shine. Your designs will be critiqued and challenged. You can back down or stand your ground and make them better. I find that feedback, especially negative ones, will improve your designs. Turn that feedback into a positive challenge.
- Have Determination – plan, complete, and stick to the goals you set. It amazes me to see deadlines slip because business owners request new features that add no value. A product is held so long it’s not relevant anymore when released. How can you gauge your success if the product never launches on time? Try this instead: commit to shipping your product, learn from your clients, and then improve the design.
It may seem difficult at first to find a balance between creativity and what clients are demanding from you – their view of a viable, shippable product. You will need to learn to have conviction in your vision, be courageous in your approach, and be determined to reach your goals, regardless of any obstacles thrown your way. Keep these in mind and you will succeed.
Join me in supporting the artists in Brookline MA from April 30 – May 1, 2016, 11am – 5pm: https://www.brooklineopenstudios.com/.
CHOhesive 