How the design process works

Every business or organisation has individual needs so the design process may vary with each job. Generally speaking, the process will look like this…

 

Briefing/Proposal

The project, its objectives, timing and budget are briefly discussed. Our client then prepares a creative brief before we meet to discuss the project in further detail. We need to clarify what is required and why, what the intended outcomes are and what technical issues and identity guidelines need to be considered. We also discuss production expectations so we may request subcontractor quotes. When we’re confident we have the information we need, we prepare a cost proposal for your approval before commencing any work on the project.

Design Phase I – Research/Concept Development

The information gathered through the briefing process is reviewed and used to plan and develop strategically focused design concepts that support the desired message. The target audience, branding, previous communications and future business plans are considered and further research is conducted if needed. Creative concepts are then developed and for web projects, wireframes are constructed. These are checked against the objectives outlined in the brief and are presented for feedback, refinement and approval. If a copywriter is required, they are assigned at this point.

Design Phase II – Design Development

Photography and illustration requirements are verified, commissioned and art directed if not already established. Approved copy is provided. Budget compliance is confirmed and change orders issued if the specifications of the job have changed. The approved concept is now translated into more complete design solutions.

Artwork

With the final text and images provided, the artwork files are further developed and completed ready for final client approval. Author’s corrections are finalised. Laser proofs or PDFs are then presented for final proof reading and detail checking. When each of the lasers are signed off on, the completed project goes into production.

Production

For print work, the approved artwork files are given to the printer to output colour proofs. These are checked for colour and technical accuracy and for anything possibly missed in the previous checks. Once the colour proofs are approved, printing commences and press checks are done at the beginning of printing if needed. The completed printed items are then delivered as per your instructions.