The “Design Brief” Explained: 6 simple steps to a successful design project

The “Design Brief” Explained: 6 simple steps to a successful design project

A design brief outlines what you want to achieve from your design project. It forms the starting point and the backbone of your project. This won't take long and needn’t be more than a page of A4, or a friendly cup of coffee and a chat with your designer. This handy 6 step guide will help you to get the most out of all your future design projects.

Impress your designer and get a better outcome for your project by using our essential 6 tips for writing a great design brief.

1.  Your company

Introducing your company is key, so don’t be shy. Your enthusiasm for your business will motivate your designer.

• Who are you and what do you do?
• How long have you been in business?
• What makes your product/service unique?
• Do you have a website or any other relevant information to help your designer get a good grasp of your business?

2.  Project outline

• Describe the market you’re in and how you will compete for business.
• How has the project come about and what do you hope it will achieve?
• Who is your target audience?
• How does it fit with other activities of your business?

3.  Your Aims

• Good design can have a huge influence on the success of a company’s marketing strategy. It’s good to outline what impact you want to make with the project.
• How do you see the project influencing your organisation?
• Do you have targets?
• Where do you see the business in 5 years time?

4.  Budget and Time-scale

Make your designer aware of any restrictions on your budget and deadlines for production, as their design choices can have a major affect on your costs and production time scales.

5.  Consult with your colleagues

If your project involves the approval of other people within your organisation, make sure they have been involved in writing the brief or have at least reviewed it. Resolve any differences in opinion before your designer starts work; saving time, expense and trouble as your project progresses.

6.  Look and Feel – Design Examples

You should provide the designer with some examples of what you consider to be effective or relevant design – this can include anything from flyers, business cards, brochures or a website, even if it is from your main competitors.

This will set a benchmark for your designer. A professional designer will not copy the ideas you give them, but will use them to jump start the design process. The more clues you can give about your design tastes, the more likely the designer will be able to produce something close to your aims.

Good luck!

The Design Team at Admiral Design and Print are always here to help. Call us today on 01933 443455 - now, how can we help you?