A design brief is something that most people overlook while deciding to hire a designer or a specialist for any job. It is the most straightforward way to avoid misunderstandings and be efficient along every step of the process. But what usually happens is that not everyone realizes the importance of it or spends enough time creating one.
A good brief states the objective of the project and makes it explicit what the client needs. It should provide clear information for a designer to refer to. Yet, there should be some room for creative freedom as well.
So how to compose a near-perfect brief? Well, one can always go around it and ask experienced writers to draft one for you. Websites such as Essay Pro has a dedicated team who could help you with this. All you would need to do is choose the right writer, tell what exactly needs to be done and voila! You have got it all done and polished.
Still, here, you will find some tips on how to provide an effective design brief.
Start with the Profile
One might think that it is the most obvious thing while hiring someone, yet many people forget this part. Even if you are a famous company, do not assume that everyone out there might be aware of your profile. Many could know your name but still do not know exactly what your entity does, or what your target market is.
It is best to provide a summary of your company or project clearly presenting your reach and giving other significant highlights. The designer making assumptions about your company could adversely affect the end result.
The Brand Image
A creation that represents your brand also needs to reflect its peculiarity. Other than merely elaborating on the profile, talk about what is your current image in the market. If you want to change it, how is it supposed to be perceived by the viewers?
Is there any message that your brand should convey? Are there any other objectives that you hope to achieve? How do you want the brand to stand out from your competitors? All these are questions that have to be addressed in brief itself.
Why This Particular Project?
It is also relevant to mention what situation has prompted the requirements for the particular project. For instance, if you are rebranding and need to give your website a makeover, if you are launching a new product, or if your current tactics simply haven’t been yielding in the market – state your reasons.
One can also share any data on what has lead to the current situation. The artist must understand the context of the demand to come up with concepts that would work in the market.
Explain the Target Audience
To discuss the market you are targeting is as important as your company’s profile. This is particularly crucial if you are hoping to get more attention from a specific group with a new design. Your current stance in the market concerning the target audience will also be worth mentioning.
If there are multiple groups, then you can rank them in the order of significance. Remember to add any information you would know about them such as demographics, interests, or any other unique attributes.
The Medium
Artists use different media channels, and many have their own specific features. If you are looking for a particular type of work, make sure to choose the right person for the job. For this, the medium has to be well established.
The same goes for the technical specifications as well. If the artist has to work within a given set of parameters, those have to be clearly presented before the commencement of the project.
The Timeline
Once you have set the essential elements you are waiting to see in the final work, it is time to talk about when you are going to need it. You might have a specific deadline for the project or might give the designer the time and creative freedom. Either way, it is vital to mention this.
A few artworks might also require the artist to work or coordinate with other teams. This should also be mentioned at the beginning of the brief itself. This will ensure that the designer works according to the schedule.
The Budget
While for certain jobs it might not be possible to come up with a clear cut pricing, it is worth mentioning at least a ballpark amount you are willing to spend. At the same time, also be realistic about what to expect for what you can afford.
Clients often expect lavish works for any amount of money that is not usually possible. Stating the budget in the initial brief will help avoid any mishaps.
Wrapping Up
If you address all seven points we have covered, it will give the designer a clear idea of what to provide. However, depending on the nature of the project, the artist might need some additional information.
To get the best creative work, it is always in your interest as a client to answer all questions the designer might have and provide whatever information they might require.