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WHAT WE DO WHEN A CLIENT JUST DOESN'T LIKE OUR DESIGNS?


WHAT we DO WHEN A CLIENT JUST DOESN'T LIKE OUR DESIGNS?
Remember that it's important to maintain a positive and professional relationship with the client throughout the process

When a client doesn't like our designs, it can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to address the situation. Here are some tips:


Ask for specific feedback:

Ask the client what they don't like about the design and what they would prefer instead. This can give you a better understanding of what changes to make.


Clarify the design brief:

Review the design brief with the client to ensure that you are both on the same page. If there are any discrepancies, make necessary changes to align with the client's expectations.


Provide alternative options:

If the client doesn't like the current design, offer alternative options to consider. This can help to show them different approaches and find one that meets their needs.


Explain your design choices:

If the client doesn't understand why certain design choices were made, explain your reasoning behind them. This can help the client appreciate the design more and understand how it meets their needs.


Don't take it personally:

Remember that design is subjective, and not everyone will like your designs. Don't take it personally and remain professional throughout the process.



Collaborate with the client:

Work together with the client to find a design solution that meets their needs while still adhering to your design principles. Keep an open mind and be willing to compromise if necessary.


Provide a rationale for your design:

Explain the thinking behind your design and how it aligns with the client's goals. This can help the client understand the intention behind the design and appreciate it more.


Set expectations:

Be clear with the client about what revisions or changes are possible within the scope of the project. If the client's requests fall outside of that scope, be transparent about any additional costs or time required.


Consider a design presentation:

If the client is having trouble visualizing the design in context, consider creating a design presentation that showcases the design in a real-world setting. This can help the client see how the design fits into the overall project.


By listening to their feedback, providing alternatives, and collaborating with the client, you can work towards a design solution that meets their needs while still aligning with your design principles.


Show empathy:

When a client doesn't like your designs, it can be easy to get defensive or frustrated. However, it's important to remember that the client has invested time and money into the project and has their own goals and expectations. Show empathy and understanding towards their perspective.


Provide mockups:

Sometimes clients struggle to visualize how a design will look in the final product. Consider providing mockups or prototypes that demonstrate how the design will look in real life. This can help the client better understand the design and provide more specific feedback.


Take a step back:

If you and the client are at an impasse, take a step back and revisit the project later with fresh eyes. Sometimes time and distance can provide clarity and new ideas.


Be open to feedback:

Feedback is a natural part of the design process, and it's important to be open to the client's input. Even if you don't agree with their feedback, listen to their concerns and try to find a solution that meets their needs.



Stay true to your design principles:

While it's important to address the client's concerns and preferences, it's also important to stay true to your own design principles. Find a balance between meeting the client's needs and creating a design that aligns with your design aesthetic.


Keep communication open:

Throughout the design process, keep communication open with the client. Update them regularly on the progress of the project, and be available to answer any questions or concerns they may have.


Remember that designing is a collaborative process, and it's important to work with the client to find a solution that meets their needs while still adhering to your design principles.

By staying open to feedback, communicating effectively, and remaining professional, you can overcome any challenges that arise during the design process.


Seek a third-party opinion:

If you and the client are struggling to find common ground, consider seeking a third-party opinion. This could be a colleague, mentor, or industry expert who can provide an objective perspective and offer solutions.



Focus on the end goal:

When disagreements arise, it can be easy to get bogged down in the details. However, it's important to stay focused on the end goal of the project. Keep in mind what the client is ultimately trying to achieve and work towards that goal.


Take responsibility:

If the client is unhappy with the design, it's important to take responsibility for any mistakes or miscommunications that may have occurred. Apologize for any misunderstandings and work to find a solution that meets their needs.


Document changes:

When making revisions or changes to the design, be sure to document them clearly. This can help avoid misunderstandings or confusion later in the project.



Know when to walk away:

While it's important to work with the client to find a solution, there may be times when it's best to walk away from the project. If the client's requests fall outside of the scope of the project, are unethical or illegal, or are simply not feasible, it may be time to end the project.


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Remember, the client's satisfaction is important, but so is maintaining your own integrity as a designer. By following these tips, you can navigate difficult situations and find a solution that meets the client's needs while staying true to your own design principles.

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