My approach to design for custom works

I do design proposals almost every other day. I love being creative but without a system, it can be overwhelming.

So, I developed a standard for approaching design. Below is the list for my research and design process.

Research

1. Gather info. I will ask the clients various details on the design reference, quantity, location, budget and timeline.

2. Goal setting. What do you want to achieve?

3. User analysis. Who will be using it, how will they use it, demographic and psychographic.

4. For event items. What does the event celebrate, what messages to be depicted and what feelings to evoke?

5. Location analysis. Logistical, grounded or high rise, space planning, movement of people.

6. Specific requirements

7. Problems and limitations

Design

1. Theme or style

2. User experience & practicality

3. Sustainable processes and manufacturing capabilities

4. Cost consideration

5. Color, Materials, Finish (CMF)

6. Packaging and delivery consideration

7. Other inputs from the research

I spend a lot of time on the research before even going into the design stage. I believe that the best design comes from various considerations beyond aesthetics.

I also try not to be too attached to my design as ultimately, the clients will have the final say.