Choosing the Right Designer for Your Startup
Recently, we sat down with designer James McDonald on the Drewl Podcast where we spoke about some of the unique challenges that come with designing for startups. As James said “they’re very early stages. And they need something.” Unlike the world of enterprise with its detailed brand guidelines, for startups, building a visual identity starts from scratch.
In these projects, the right designer acts as a sort of translator. They take the values and vision of your brand and express them visually. Even if you’re unsure what your brand should look like, a great designer knows how to ask the right questions to uncover your brand identity.
Collaboration vs Transaction
When you work with a designer that “gets it” then that relationship becomes more of a collaborative partnership rather than a simple transaction. As Charlie puts it:
“When I engage with a client, I want to truly understand their problems and take them as my own.”
If you want people to connect with your brand then you need a designer that connects with it too. The right designer is invested in your brand and your goals. They will dig deeper into the “why” of your company and approach the project with a perspective that aligns with your own.
This collaborative approach not only leads to a better end product but also can potentially tease out insights that you may not have thought of.
Signs you’ve found the right designer for your startup
- They ask detailed and insightful questions about your audience and goals.
- They can reframe your vision back to you in their own words to make sure you’re on the same page.
- They communicate openly and make you feel comfortable sharing “half-baked” ideas.
- Their proposals or first drafts show an understanding of your business.
Want more insight into design for startups and finding the right creative partners? Check out the full episode on our YouTube channel.
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