The truth is, incredible design work doesn’t just happen for some people and not others. Every successful designer follows a tried-and-true graphic design process they know will help them achieve results – and you can, too. We’re demystifying the creative process to show you exactly what works.
What is the graphic design process?
Graphic design is a critical visual communication tool marketers use to convey key messages about a brand that resonate with target audiences
- As a creative process, designing graphics involves equal parts of “creative” and “process
- A graphic designer will adhere to logical, step-by-step procedures all the way to completion
Finalize and deliver the design assets
Package them up so they’re ready for production and can be easily implemented into whatever digital or print format your recipients need
- Your creative brief should articulate what deliverables you should share
- Make sure to send the asset in the correct file types and sizes so no changes are needed later on
The graphic design process in 6 steps
Create a clear production and approvals process to streamline cross-team workflows and help you arrive at a more successful end result, faster
Create the design
During the design stage, a graphic designer will implement best practices related to the use of color, typography, the hierarchy of information and positive and negative space.
- Self-critique and examine your work with an editing eye
- If there are any design elements that seem out of place or do not support the goals outlined in the creative brief, make necessary edits.
Build out the creative brief
Also called a design brief, this document will capture all of your client’s wants and needs and other key project specifications.
- Include company information, brand guidelines, asset type, purpose of the asset and how it fits into the overarching marketing campaign, initial design concept or creative direction, and project timeline, with key milestones.
Collect and implement feedback
The feedback stage involves a series of smaller steps that ensure quality control and perfect alignment with your stakeholders’ vision
- Submit the design work for internal review
- Make any requested changes
- Present the updated design to your client or other decision-makers
- Gather feedback from all stakeholders
- Confirm your next steps
How following a graphic design process drives results
Once your creative brief is approved, this serves as both your instruction manual as well as your contract for this particular project
- Listening closely to client feedback and making the necessary updates can help you become a better graphic designer
- Following a consistent process is the first step toward success
Research the design ecosystem
During the research stage, spend time on: Understanding the specific product or service you’re representing, examining competitors’ design work, exploring other visual content your target audience consumes, considering how you might apply color theory and design trends
- Gathering inspiration images and building out a moodboard
Develop and refine the graphic design concept
Pitch 3 ideas: Provide exactly what the client asked for, offer your interpretation of what you think they think they’ll like, and pitch a new concept or idea that could still meet the brief.
- Continue refining it and seek feedback.
