1 – Vision
Whether you need a logo created or a full color illustration done, the processes for both graphic design and illustrations are the same. After discussing your design needs, I begin visualizing the possibilities through sketching and research. I will present up to four rough idea sketches to you to establish a solid design direction. Edits are common and welcomed at this stage. Once we have an approved direction, color comps are created. The last step is to develop your project into the finalized, full-sized version.
2 – Integrity
Integrity is a crucial element in my design process, from concept development to final delivery. Here’s how my value of integrity is used in the design process:
1. Honesty in Communication
- Being transparent with clients about timelines, capabilities, and potential challenges.
- Setting realistic expectations and delivering on promises.
2. Ethical Design Practices
- I respect copyright and intellectual property which includes licensed images, fonts, and resources.
- Avoiding plagiarism by creating original work. I am an illustrator/artist by trade.
3. Client-Centric Approach
- Prioritizing the client’s vision and needs rather than imposing personal preferences.
- Providing honest feedback, even when it might be difficult, to ensure the best outcome for the project.
4. Quality and Consistency
- Maintaining a high standard of work throughout the project, without cutting corners.
- Ensuring that the final deliverables meet or exceed the agreed-upon specifications.
5. Responsibility and Accountability
- Taking ownership of the project from start to finish, including addressing any issues or revisions that arise.
- Acknowledging mistakes and making the necessary corrections without shifting blame.
6. Respect for Deadlines
- Adhering to agreed-upon timelines, or communicating promptly if adjustments are needed.
- Managing time effectively to ensure that each project phase is completed with care.
7. Client Confidentiality
- Respecting the confidentiality of client information and designs, ensuring they are not shared or used without permission.
3 – Experience
With over 20 years of experience as an illustrator and graphic designer, my expertise in design is well-established. This extensive background adds depth to my work and allows me to bring a seasoned perspective to your project.
4 – Creative Problem Solving
Creative problem-solving is a fundamental aspect of design, enabling designers to address challenges in innovative and effective ways. Here’s how it plays out in the design process:
1. Understanding the Problem
- Deep Analysis: Before jumping into solutions, thoroughly understand the problem by researching the client’s needs, target audience, and market context.
2. Brainstorming and Ideation
- Divergent Thinking: Generate a wide range of ideas and variations of those ideas. I enjoy exploring unconventional solutions and pushing boundaries.
3. Prototyping and Experimentation
- Sketching and Mockups: I quickly visualize ideas through sketches or rough mockups to explore different directions without committing significant resources.
4. Adapting and Flexibility
- Embracing Constraints: Turn limitations (e.g., budget, time, materials) into opportunities by creatively working within them rather than seeing them as barriers.
- Pivoting: Be ready to change direction if initial ideas don’t pan out, applying lessons learned to improve the design.
5. Synthesis and Refinement
- Attention to Detail: I focus on refining the smallest details that could make a significant impact on the overall design’s effectiveness.
6. Communication and Justification
- Presenting Solutions: Clearly articulate the rationale behind my designs, linking them back to the problem and client needs.
- Client Collaboration: Work closely with the client to ensure that the solution aligns with their vision and goals, making adjustments as needed.
7. Innovation and Risk-Taking
- Pushing Boundaries: I’m not afraid to take risks and propose bold ideas that could lead to groundbreaking solutions.
- Learning from Failure: I view setbacks as learning opportunities, using them to inform and improve future designs.
8. Final Implementation
- Practical Application: Ensure that the creative solution is not only visually appealing but also functional and feasible for the intended purpose.