How to get the most from your designer.
A designer can produce in many different ways. I like to think of myself as a conduit for our client’s imagination. Born with a creative impulse and trained in the principles and theories of design, I am able, in most circumstances, to create a work that not only encompasses what the client is after, but exceeds their expectations. This doesn’t come easy; there is a push-pull that happens between a client and designer that ultimately defines the result of the relationship. While I always respect a client’s creative whims, I won’t disservice them by indulging those whims. As a professional designer, I like to ultimately hold the reigns on the project, and find that a client gets the most for their money when they allow this sort of creative management.
It can be difficult placing trust in a designer, letting go of the reigns and allowing a creative freedom, but this is what achieves the best outcome both for the client, and the designer. If too rigid of constraints are placed on a project, the designer ends up whipping out a boxed design, which inhibits the creative juices and shows in the finished project.
I consider this sort of freedom earned. Just as one earns trust, creative freedom is earned through consistent results and overall competence. When you hire a designer, these are things you should look for: past results, a great portfolio, and happy customers. Where you find them, you will also find a designer that deserves some trust.
So what exactly does this mean? I love the push-pull, and think it is vital to achieving a design that works for you. Bring in your ideas, let me know what you are thinking, and let me transform that into a beautiful piece, by first working the design, and then working with you to shape it into the perfect solution. But also bring your trust, because after all, that is why you hired us. When I bring a concern to the table, it will be for a legitimate reason. Hand in hand, we can create a lasting work of art.
Heidi Bassignani