Things I’ve learned as a Designer

I’m learning things, all the time. And in no particular order, here are 5 things I’ve been learning and thinking about lately.

When asking for feedback, always provide context.

I do some mentoring, and always, always, this is one of the first things I end up teaching. Yes — absolutely ask people for feedback, but amazingly, there are skills to asking for it. I don’t know how many times I’ve received a design along with, “So what do you think?”

Provide context! It’s super easy

• What is the problem you’re trying to solve?
• Who is the solution for?
• Where does this screen live?
• When do you need feedback by?
• What kind of feedback are you expecting from me? Visual feedback? Layout? Everything?

Seriously, do the artist inspiration thing

It’s unfortunate that it doesn’t seem like real work, but spending some time doing inspiration browsing is incredibly valuable. Flesh out a bit of your own first idea to avoid mere copying, then do some inspiration browsing and see how you match up and where you differ.

Don’t present an option you don’t want your client to choose

Because they will pick it.

If your client ever says “Pop” and they’re not referencing soda — walk away.

No explanation needed here. And guys, it’s soda — not pop.

No one sees themselves as the bad guy. Their perception is their reality.

People are amazingly irrational and rational at the same time. People act out of things they really believe are real — and just because the reason is not immediately apparent to you doesn’t mean it’s not there. Keep asking questions and try to get to the bottom of whatever is going on. And ultimately, have compassion. We’re all works in progress.