Ask a Website Design Company ^BETA

21 December 2008
Hi Marilyn,

Graphics can be a challenge, not so much in developing the graphics themselves, but finding what works for your client, or in a case like developing a marketing piece, finding what works for your target demographic.

I have heard from many of my clients in the past, "Well, I don't know what I want, but I will tell you when I see it."

You seem to be ahead of the game in that you have the desire, and a focused demographic. What I might suggest is User Testing.

First, develop multiple labels for your product, then get a test group together have them vote on the label and then, the important part, have them tell you what they like and don't like about the label they chose and of course, the same for the labels they didn't choose.

This will give you insight to what your demographic is looking for. You can continue this, each time using only those labels that received the most votes, and each time with a different test group until you find a label that pleases the majority of your test group(s).

The main thing to remember here is that the test groups should be controlled. You don't want to have an open vote, each person should vote privately so as not to allow open discussion. You can guide specific questions on your, "ballot" by asking controlled questions that they specifically vote on.

This process is proven for user testing on User Interfaces (UI) for websites, video games, and software. The main problem is that it is typically expensive and time consuming for companies, and is usually the first thing that is either omitted or shortened in the development process.

As for being a graphic designer in general, you will eventually develop your own style, although it may be influenced by different people or sources. It takes time, patience and sometimes frustration levels can be high. Try not to be, "married" to the designs you are working with for other people, their ideas are different than your own, and years later, your client will still love the product you designed for them, even if it remains one of the projects you like the least.

You are entering into a client based world, and although you need to help guide your clients in a direction based on your experience and research, ultimately you will make concessions for your client, or design something that you don't like and they love. But always strive to do your very best.

Best wishes.

12 January 2009
Hi Marilyn,

Having studied on a similar course the importance of the design cycle has always been drummed into me.

Good research is the foundation of any great project. Don't just stick to the obvious either - think about your target audience and what else influences them like films, television, games etc.

It's always easy to lock yourself in a room while you work, but take the time to show your progress to family and friends from time to time to get opinions.

There's a lot of competition if you want to be a graphic designer, but if you can build up a great portfolio and skillset, you'll be setting yourself up for success.

Hope this helps and all the best,

Jordan
Purple Internet