You’ve Hired A Graphic Designer. Now What?

You’ve hired a graphic designer. Now what? Clear communication from the start helps ensure the work supports your business goals and avoids delays or rework.

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Creative that Works

Advance planning reduces cost, avoids delays, and improves final quality.

Plan More Time Than You Think You Need

Planning ahead saves money and avoids unnecessary stress.

  • Start with the Goal

    Do not begin only with the item you want designed. Start with what you want the piece to accomplish.

    Examples:

    • Increase customers
    • Promote a sale or event
    • Announce a new location
    • Explain your services

    Tell the designer the specific item you want designed, such as a postcard or brochure, but also explain the purpose behind it. When the goal is clear, the designer can make better design decisions and may suggest more effective options.

  • Define How Clear Your Vision Is

    You do not need to have everything figured out.

    • If you know exactly what you want, say so.
    • If you only have a general idea, say that too.

    For Example: You want a brochure based on your website but are unsure how to structure it. Start by deciding the brochure’s purpose. A brochure usually cannot hold everything from a text-heavy website, so keep that in mind. Choose a focus, such as a general overview, and select only content that supports that goal.

  • Content and Format Decisions:

    Using the brochure as an example, before design begins, the following should be clarified.

    Copy

    • Will you provide the text, or will the designer write it?
    • The designer needs to know this before starting.

    Scope

    • Select the most important information that supports the brochure’s goal, such as a general overview of your services.
    • Avoid trying to cover every detail.

    Size and Format

    • If you know the brochure size and fold style, share it.
    • If not, the designer can recommend options based on content length.

    Printing Responsibilities

    Decide who is handling printing.

    Options:

    • You print it yourself
    • The designer manages printing

    If the designer handles printing:

    • Confirm quantity
    • Ask about access to commercial printers and potential cost savings

  • What a Designer Needs Before Starting

    To begin work efficiently, a designer should know:

    • The goal of the project
    • What item is being designed
    • How clear your direction is
    • Who is providing the copy
    • Who is handling printing
    • Quantity, if printing is included
    • When the project is needed

    Providing this information up front reduces revisions and prevents delays.