The Power of a Simple Design Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Simplify your workflow, be more productive, and earn more
Have you ever wondered why most designers make their design process too complicated? Regardless of the steps, my main question is, even if you have too many steps or a complex process, is it helping you to work faster or earn more?
If not, you're definitely not alone.
I totally get it. We try different approaches to create the best designs, but sometimes we overcomplicate things. First, let’s find out why this happens, and then look at how we can do better with a simple design process.
The Common Problem
Most designers focus on the end results. Even when talking with clients, chances are they skip important steps and jump straight to the budget. I was there, and I can't deny this. Because of this, I missed big chances. You're probably missing out on extra money, , which you'll know by the end of this design process guide.
What Most People Do
After skipping the most common problems, we often think, "Hmm, maybe setting up Notion, creating different templates, or making a to-do list will help. Maybe I can write 100 questions so I can charge more." But the truth is, if you don’t have a clear design process, how can you charge more or even work faster?
Of course, tools can be helpful, but they don't guarantee productivity. At the end of the day, doing the thing is the thing.
My Simple Approach
In my experience, having a clear way of doing design work and improving it over time can make your work more valuable and help you be more productive. This can also mean making more money.
And you can think about this in five simple steps:
Define Scope/Strategies
Instead of giving a budget without understanding the clear effort, start by asking questions. Based on these questions, you define the project scope, or you can call it the strategy. This helps you understand how much effort is required, what tasks are involved, and how the client will help you too.
For example, if a client asks for a redesign of an app, you should ask a few questions:
Are all screens included in the app?
Does the app cover all use cases?
Is there an existing style guide?
Do you have all the content and images?
Do you need my input on animation?
By asking these questions, you uncover the actual effort and unspoken details. This allows you to charge more because you understand the full scope of the work.
Brainstorming (Problem-Solving)
Once you get the project, it's time for brainstorming. In most projects, I focus on three things for the best results:
Workshop with the client: This can be one or more meetings.
Solving problems: Creating flows and sitemaps, etc.
My understanding: Summarizing what I’ve learned.
Clients will share their ideas, but my understanding is the most important part. This is where I lock in the scope of the project. If the client asks for big changes later, We might need to revisit the proposal. This step is crucial. It makes sure everyone is on the same page and sets clear project boundaries.
Exploring Design Direction
When you know the project and have done all the brainstorming, you now have a clear idea. But the biggest problem is bringing this idea to life. Many designers go to Pinterest or Dribbble and gather tons of inspiration, but they often lose direction.
That’s why I try to keep things very simple. I create a basic mood board on FigmaJam where I organize specific sections and paste layouts based on those sections.
It can include:
Layout ideas
Interaction ideas
Colors and typography
And much more
From here, I start working on the direction. The idea is to keep it simple, using either FigmaJam or Miro and keeping everything in one place.
Designing
Let's be honest, you and I know how to design, right? So let's talk about the most important thing.
The first thing is to focus on results, not perfection. I used to spend hours perfecting one design. When I showed it to the client, they often asked, "Did you try this or that?" Even if I explained, they still wanted to see those versions.
In my design process, I always create multiple design variants. I don't delete my designs, even if they look worse. This way, I can show my client how I moved from A to B. Trust my process. If a client asks, "Did you try this?" I can always say, "Yes, here is that version."
Secondly, once the idea, structure, and story are clear, complete the layout. Now you can spend time adding details. My advice is to avoid perfectionism at the beginning.
Collaborating with Developers
In most of my projects, I collaborate with developers. Sometimes this happens during the design phase, and other times it's midway through the project. It totally depends on the project's needs. If you’re a designer who does the same, that’s great! If not, I completely understand.
The key point is that exporting assets, answering developers' questions, and making design changes take a lot of time. It’s important to be accountable for this effort.
Whenever you have a project, ask the client if they need additional support with developers. If they say yes, make sure to ask for more money.
If everything is clear in the beginning, I am sure you are having a long-term relationship with the client and at the same time, you are excited about the project, which makes you happy!
Remember: Your time is valuable. Make sure you’re getting paid for your worth
Today’s Action Steps
Every time you have a project, create a project scope. It can be in any format. It can be a doc or Notion. It can be a simple list. You can ask ChatGPT or download a template online. It can give you a better idea.
Build your process to help you work faster, and you can customize it based on your needs.
Always look for the effort and extra things the project needs. Do this before setting the price.
Faizur.
Have a good day 🙌
PS. Whenever you are ready, there are 3 ways I can help you:
#1: I share design tips on Instagram. I post daily content there. You can learn about the behind scenes.
#2: Have you visited my YouTube channel? I post valuable content. More is on the way.
#3: I have just released a new Grid Layout Kit with over 13 grids. It has everything you need to craft award-winning & pixel-perfect designs.
Lastly, explore all my design resources at faizur.com/resources
If you need web & app design help, faizur.com