Chapter 7: Presenting Design from Mike Monteiro’s Design is a Job
Presenting and selling a design is a vital part of the design process, since it is the reason why the design was created in the first place. A design is only useful when it surpasses the main hurdle of pleasing a client that is willing to buy and implement it. Until then, the group creation will indefinitely remain a prototype. It is also crucial to hear from the client to see what needs to be changed in the design. Before this reading response, I was unfamiliar with the presenting process and thought that the presentation was based around a final version of the design idea. Instead, it is yet another way to gain input from the client and shape the design into an even more ultimate form.
There is a certain time and place to “wing it,” and it should not be done while presenting a design to a client. Monteiro stresses the importance of creating an agenda and sticking to it while in front of the crowd. All details like presentation length, who is presenting, and audience expectations should be figured out and understood by all before the meeting even begins. This way, each side knows exactly what to expect from the other. Confident, well thought out presentations will have a greater positive impact and will give designers an aura of confidence. Monteiro also explains that while presenting, always make sure that something is there for a reason. This will cut out unneeded jargon to establish a more succinct presentation.
Always mention goals and benefits. If a presenter simply shows an audience exactly what is on the screen, there is no explanation for why something is the way it is. There should be some way of tying everything together while specifically addressing concerns and solutions to the client. This is also something to be conscious of at all times. What I like about Monteiro’s instructions is how he tells the reader exactly what they should be doing and why. Sure, there is always some wiggle room, but if the presenter knows how they can best exhibit their goals in the design, they will present with the confidence of knowing what is expected of them.
