What If I Don’t Like the Design?
Let’s be real: this is a fear I completely understand, and trust me - it’s as much of a nightmare for me as it is for you.
But here’s the thing: I’ve learned that this scenario is rare when there’s a clear and thoughtful process in place. That’s why I’ve developed a structured process that acts as a safety net for both of us. This approach ensures you’re happy with the direction and have a clear understanding of what’s ahead, while also protecting me from endless revisions and scope creep. But it wasn’t always the way…
When I first started out, I made the mistake of jumping into projects without a solid plan or direction. It didn’t take long to realise that this led to confusion, mismatched expectations, and extra work. These days, I approach every project with structure and clarity so that there are no surprises for either of us.
The Process for Logo Design
Step 1: Strategy First
Every successful design begins with strategy. I start by having you complete a detailed questionnaire to understand your brand, audience, and goals. This helps us uncover the essence of your brand and lays the foundation for all design decisions. Without a clear strategy, design becomes guesswork.
Step 2: Creative Direction
Next comes the creative direction stage. I develop a presentation with mood boards and visual elements that align with your brand strategy. This step clearly outlines how the design elements tie back to the strategy, so you can see that everything is there for a reason. Nothing is left to chance - each decision is deliberate and thoughtful.
This gives you a chance to see the look and feel or vibe of the design direction and provide insights and feedback. This way, you'll have a clear idea of what’s coming, no unwanted surprise! Approving this stage ensures we’re both aligned before moving forward with the actual logo design, saving time and preventing miscommunication down the track.
Please bring on the feedback during this stage! I want to hear what you love, what you’re unsure about, and any tweaks you’d like to see. This is where the collaborative magic happens.
Step 3: Concept Presentation
After the creative direction is approved, I present initial logo concepts. Each concept is rooted in the strategy we’ve established. This isn’t a guessing game; it’s a thoughtful process where every element - from the typography to the colours has been carefully considered.
Step 4: Revisions
Revisions are built into every project. I offer two rounds of revisions to refine the chosen concept. This allows us to fine-tune the design until it aligns perfectly with your vision. Including revisions gives you peace of mind, knowing that you’ll have the opportunity to shape the final outcome.
And if, after these revisions, you’re still not 100% happy, we can revisit the direction or explore additional revisions at an extra cost. My goal is always to ensure you feel confident and excited about the final design.
The Process for Marketing Collateral and Websites
When it comes to marketing collateral and website design, the process is slightly different. These projects are all about maintaining consistency with your existing brand guidelines.
I use your brand guidelines as my north star, ensuring every piece (whether it’s a flyer, brochure, or website) stays true to your visual identity. From typography to color usage, I follow your established guidelines to create designs that feel cohesive and professional.
Collaboration is just as important here. I make sure to gather your input and feedback throughout the process, so the final result not only meets your expectations but also works effectively for your business.
Why This Process Works
The reason I’ve developed this process is simple: to avoid miscommunication, wasted time, and designs that miss the mark. By starting with strategy, aligning on direction early, and building in opportunities for feedback, we create a clear path to a successful outcome.
This process is also a safety net for both of us. It ensures you’re happy with the direction and have a clear indication of what’s ahead before we move forward. For me, it prevents endless revisions by setting clear expectations and boundaries from the outset.
Final Thoughts
Design is a journey, and it’s one I’m passionate about taking with you. Whether we’re creating a new logo, refreshing your brand, or designing marketing materials, my process is designed to ensure clarity, alignment, and success.
So, if you’re ready to bring your vision to life, let’s get started. Together, we’ll create something you’ll be proud of.
