“Let it be modern and eye-catching” can be a starting point to talk about the direction of the design; but does not describe the scope of production. When working with a graphic designer, preparing a short brief explaining the target, medium, content and delivery conditions makes both proposal comparison and revisions more understandable.
Instantiate what will be produced
If a poster, social media image and presentation cover are required for the same campaign, list them as separate formats. Specify size, language, variant and delivery files. Adapting a main design to different sizes and developing new ideas for each medium are not the same scope.
Determine who is responsible for the text and images
The approved text, product photo, logo and user manual, if any, should be collected in one place. It should be discussed at the proposal stage whether the missing content will be prepared by the designer. Do not confuse an image with unclear copyright or usage permission as a reference; Showing an example does not provide permission to publish that image.
Convert feedback into a single decision list
Conflicting comments from different people may prolong the process. Determine who will incorporate feedback and give final approval. Instead of saying “it didn't happen,” explain what goal was not met or what information was missing. This way, the design decision is not driven by personal guesses.
The delivery date, scope of revision and status of the source files should be visible in the freelance work proposal. Don't make the final check on the screen alone; Consider manufacturer requirements for print work, actual publication size for digital work. A good brief does not close off the creative space; It reduces the possibility of finding a solution to the wrong problem.
Fillable question layout for design brief
You can use the following order when preparing a brief: Who needs what? Where will the design be seen? What should the reader understand or do? Which content is ready and which is waiting? Who will use the delivery? If the answer to a question is unknown, mark it as awaiting decision rather than filling it in with a guess.
For example, in the catalog design brief, instead of "keep it modern", the number of products, the reader's selection criteria, the number of languages and the frequency of updates should be specified. Print template and product variants are added to the packaging design brief. Applying the same brief form to each service without changing it may cause loss of important details.
You can prepare these answers before the long presentation for the graphic design service interview with Selçuk Aker. Writing down what features you like next to the reference images allows you to give directions without asking for a particular design to be copied.
Frequently asked questions
What is the first step to translate a graphic design request into a production brief?
Concrete the design's intended use and expected output. Writing down the size, quantity, content, and approval person turns a general beautiful design request into actionable work.
How should design interpretations of different people in the brand be combined?
Clarify comments through a single responsible person before sending them to the designer. Make decisions regarding conflicting requests; State in one list which change is desired and why.
