Define

1It’s important to know as much about the final product as possible at the beginning of your project. I’ll help you design on final dimensions, substrates, and colors, but ultimately all of these decisions are yours. Take a look at samples, compare different products, and ask plenty of questions. Knowing what you want is just as important and achieving a finished design.

Sketching

2I normally do a quick sketch to save time in the layout stage of my graphic design process. This also gives me a good idea of what assets I’ll need to complete your design project. I’ve even had customers send me hand drawn samples of what they wanted. This is up to you and totally optional. This step takes just a few minutes most of the time.

Gather

3I carefully consider each element that I plan to put into your design. Filtering everything by this question: Will this help or hinder the final message? Collecting the right assets could take some time and any input of what images, colors, textures, and techniques you would like incorporated are welcome and appreciated.

Layout

4At this point I have everything I need to put your project together. I simply begin assembling the assets that I’ve collected. This the time you will be charge my hourly rate. Actual time on the computer doing layout can vary for each project. I try to give an accurate estimate of the hours you will be charged at the outset of each project. If I am about to exceed this amount of time I will always communicate that with you first in order to avoid hidden charges and price increases.

Presentation

5Once I’ve finished designing I will send you and pdf of the layout via email. Take your time to review the spelling a pertinent information that will be printed or otherwise published. It is at this point that costly mistakes can be avoided just by checking and double checking. An extra set of eyes never hurt any project. I would however try to avoid approval by committee if at all possible.

Refinement

6Normally I make simple text and layout changes at this point. If I’ve completely missed the mark and need to start all over then we will probably define a new direction and start there. This means additional design fees and production delays. It’s important that you define your project carefully from the very begin to avoid these possible set backs.

Production

7Once I coordinate with a printer or production office there can’t be any additional changes made, but that is when the real fun begins. We get to see our hard work take on life. If there is shipping involved I will send tracking numbers by email and communicate any milestones in the production process. Deadlines need to be discussed specifically in the define portion of my design process in order to ensure timely deliver of the final product.