It has been a few years, to say the least, since my last blog post. But, as Asya Blue Design grows we are going to try to be more diligent when it comes to updating our friends, clients, and colleagues on the latest company and graphic design news and resources. The past six years have brought us amazing clients and projects, and with every new collaboration we learn how we can be more creative and efficient. We not only deliver what we consider to be “good work for good people,” but we also strive to teach and impart important information along the way. To put it simply, we find ourselves answering many questions and having a lot of conversations with our clients throughout the life cycle of each design project. It is out of these conversations that this list came about.
So when you are ready to hire a graphic designer for a particular project, be sure to review the list below to set yourself and your collaboration up for success.
Identify the asset(s) you need designed. (for example: brochure, social media graphic, trade show banner, presentation, book cover, branding guideline document based on an existing logo)
Are you working with a third-party vendor such as a printer to produce this? If yes, do you have specifications from them or would you need the designer to coordinate with them? If no, do you need the designer to suggest someone?
What is the main goal of this piece? (example: attract new business, announcement to existing customers, advertise services or a promotion to both new and existing customers)
Who is your audience and/or customer?
Have you created this in the past?
If yes, did you like it or do you want something different? Why?
Does your company/organization have existing branding that needs to be followed? (logo, colors, fonts, other guidelines) Have this ready to provide to your designer. Make sure you have high-resolution or vector files of your logo.
If you don’t have a logo/branding and are looking for a logo design: the items on this list are still relevant for a logo design project but keep an eye out for our next post for additional items to prepare specifically for a logo and branding design collaboration.
Is the content that is needed for this piece ready? (example: images/photos, written copy) Or do you need the designer to assist with image research and copywriting as well? (Note: your designer may be able to recommend a professional copywriter or proofreader)
Are there similar assets that you have seen that you feel match the aesthetic that you are looking for? Or simply things that you like? Sending your designer some visual inspiration from other businesses is always appreciated and is helpful.
Is there something that you absolutely don’t want? (example: colors to stay away from)
What is your timeline and deadline?
And most important — you don’t need to know what you want your piece to look like. Remember that you are working with a professional who can problem-solve this for you.
Do you want to learn more about working with a graphic designer or a graphic design agency? Feel free to reach via email or by filling out our contact form.
A successful collaboration indeed! Asya Blue, art director and graphic designer, with happy client, Nandar Matari of Matari Meditation at a networking event enjoying some face-to-face time.