The Design Process: The Brief

The Brief/Identification of Need A design brief highlights the problem to be solved or the need to be met. Quite often a client approaches a designer with a problem that they would like fixed. The client may not be able to describe their needs in a concise way.

The Brief/Identification of Need The first step the designer takes is to assess the problem and write a brief which describes the need and any constraints in a simple, straightforward way.

The Brief/Identification of Need Example: A client comes to you saying… “I want a house boat that has a kitchen and toilet and is cheap” This is a very vague statement and not suitable for a brief.

The Brief/Identification of Need By asking the client strategic questions, the designer can determine exactly what it is the client needs. - “What exactly is your budget?” - “Does it have to be a boat or does it simply have to float?” - “Does it have to propel itself in the water?” - “Does it ever have to travel on land?” - “How many people must it hold?”

The Brief/Identification of Need The designer through their questions acts as an interpreter to determine exactly what it is the client wants. Client’s request + Designer’s interpretation = Brief that all agree on

The Brief/Identification of Need The designer should write the brief so that all parties agree on what will be designed. The final brief for our example might be: “Design a vehicle capable of travelling on land and water, whilst comfortably accommodating two adults, for $50,000.”

The Brief/Identification of Need A comparison of the initial request versus the final brief shows the work of the designer: “I want a house boat that has a kitchen and toilet and is cheap” to “Design a vehicle capable of travelling on land and water, whilst comfortably accommodating two adults, for $50,000.”

The Brief/Identification of Need Interpret your design situation to form a short, concise brief. Make sure to include any important considerations any constraints.