The Graphic Design Process

A graphic artist follows a series of steps before they begin the actual design work. This series of steps is a way to ensure that you are delivering exactly what the client needs. A design for a client has to fit a specific set of requirements, so it's only natural that the process to figure out what client needs to produce an effective output is based on a logical flow.

Before you begin…..Understand the Client and the Problem

What does the Client want?  Sometimes a client will have a clear idea of what they want for an advertisement, website or business card, other times they may simply be looking for something to promote their business and they are hoping that the artist will miraculously give them something that they’ll love.  Often, it is a little of both.

Before you begin designing, you must understand the client and the problem - Graphic Design communicates, it solves a problem or if fulfills a need.  

1. Planning - Research, Review and Assess

Research is done by examining the problem, the business, the product and the environment. Understanding the demographics, the limitations and the possibilities of a design.  

Follow the Planning Guidelines.

2. Concept and Design - Create, Mockups, Outline,Plan

Before you sit down at a computer, you will need a to formulate your designs - Many designs!  Experiment with Variations in size, colour and space.  Look at different Fonts and line weights.  Concept drawings and mock-ups can and should range from early rough sketches to nearly completed and wholly rendered ideas.  Some ideas will move forwards and some will remain on the drawing board.  

Follow the Concept Guidelines

3. Production - Create full Beta Project

     Whether you are working with pencils or with pixels, eventually you will need to narrow down your ideas and decide on a concept.  Render this concept AS IF it was your final project.  After Step 4 you may need to reconsider some things, but this is where your planning takes its (nearly) final form.  This form will be determined by the project outline (printed or digital, colour or BW, etc.)

4. Testing and QA - Test, Test,Test

     Though you might think that your project is done, it’s only just begun! How is it received by your client? By your peers, by yourself? How can it be improved? What else can you offer? Follow the Presentation Guidelines to receive feedback on your work.  Revisit step 3 and prepare to go public

5. Product Launch - Go Live!

     Submit your work as determined in the outline.  Your work will be on display in some form (Digital, Printed etc.).  Now that the project is completed, it’s time to reflect on your Design - Did it solve the problem? Follow the Product Launch Guidelines and