How to write a design brief that gets results
The success of a project is directly tied to the quality of the design brief. That's why we take the time to write precise briefs for every project. We believe a well-crafted brief not only gives us essential info but also serves as a powerful springboard for creating something truly remarkable.
A good design brief sets the foundation for success. It clarifies the objectives, audience, and desired outcomes, providing crucial insights to shape a project. Without it, clients risk increased costs from additional rounds of revisions, delayed launches, missed market opportunities, and an end result that doesn't meet their objectives. Those kinds of projects are never fun, they’re seldom rewarding creatively, and everyone walks away feeling a little disappointed.
And we ain’t got time for that. That’s why we put together some key considerations to help you save time and money and ensure your next project gets off to a flying start. Here are some key elements to consider:
1. What’s the context and what problem do we need to solve?
Give us a brief overview of the project, sharing its purpose, target audience, and any specific goals or objectives. This helps us grasp the bigger picture and create a design solution that truly resonates.
2. What are we doing?
We can do as much as you need or as little. Let us know exactly what you need from the project and what the deliverables are. Consider who will be writing the copy, whether it's for print or digital distribution, and include specifications such as size, formats, page count, and any technical requirements.
3. Who is it intended for, and what do you know about them?
Share insights about your target audience, including demographics, preferences, and any relevant market research. The more insights we have about your audience, the better they can tailor the design to evoke a stronger connection between the audience and the brand.
4. What are the mandatories?
If you have existing brand guidelines, be sure to include them in the brief. This ensures consistency across all your marketing materials and helps the designer understand and leverage your brand identity.
5. What’s on your wish list?
Share your big idea! What would you absolutely love to see? Give examples of designs you like (and dislike) to help us understand your aesthetic preferences and how far you’d like to push the creative. This can include images, color palettes, typography, or even links to websites or campaigns that inspire you.
6. When do you need it and what’s the budget?
We're all about openness and transparency, so please be clear about your timeline and budget constraints. Realistic expectations in these areas set us up for success so we can help you achieve your goals and milestones.
If you’re still unsure, send us a quick email, and we’ll send you our design brief.