The Systems Approach Objective 1.01

All About Planning Design is a process that involves preliminary research and collaborative planning before it can begin. Advantages Work is done more efficiently Keeps the project organized Yields better results through improved customer satisfaction For more information, visit http://www.webdesignerdepot.com/2009/10/systematizing-the-graphic-design-process/

Step 1 – Collect Information Interview the client and/or use a questionnaire Who is the target audience? Age, Gender, Geographic location What is the goal of the design? To sell, inform, entertain, educate Formal or informal What are the technical requirements? Documents required – flyer, business card, advertisement, web site, etc. Page Size Required colors Copies needed What is the budget? What are the deadlines?

Step 2 – Develop a Plan This might include: a written proposal a price quote a customer contract the development of a design team a detailed action plan

Step 3 - Brainstorm Find inspiration in books, magazines, museums, and unwinding (taking walks, having fun, etc.) Research similar or competing designs Sketch out ideas

Step 4 - Experiment Keeping the original goal in mind, experiment with a few different design options to show the client Experiment with fonts, color schemes, graphics

Step 5 - Proofread Proofread, proofread, proofread! Have others on the development team proofread the design No client will want a product with spelling or grammatical errors

Step 6 - Revise Collaborate with the client for feedback Revise the design over and over again, if necessary