Quality Design takes time
Quality Design takes time
Quality Design takes time
Introduction
I’ve always been driven by the idea of a talent as a pure, mysterious gift, closed and limited and can’t be inherited nor transferred. The narrative that has always been reinforced in movies, novels, and on stage; The hero’s journey is shaped by a supernatural ability that the rest of us lack.
But the quite boring reality is; outstanding creative work is always a result of a simple pathway, a framework that can be achieved with patience and commitment.
“If you’re terrified that you’re never going to have another idea, it makes you think, How did I have previous ideas? So you pay attention to the conversations, the walks, the writing, the drawing, the models, the prototypes—all that helped you before.” -Jony Ive
Creating quality work, especially in design, involves a few core steps.
I’ve always been driven by the idea of a talent as a pure, mysterious gift, closed and limited and can’t be inherited nor transferred. The narrative that has always been reinforced in movies, novels, and on stage; The hero’s journey is shaped by a supernatural ability that the rest of us lack.
But the quite boring reality is; outstanding creative work is always a result of a simple pathway, a framework that can be achieved with patience and commitment.
“If you’re terrified that you’re never going to have another idea, it makes you think, How did I have previous ideas? So you pay attention to the conversations, the walks, the writing, the drawing, the models, the prototypes—all that helped you before.” -Jony Ive
Creating quality work, especially in design, involves a few core steps.
Preworkout.
Idea quality reflects input quality. Most people skip this step. Stretch your mind by getting out, see, listen and interact. Build a stockpile before you sit down to make anything.
Ideation.
Gather without filter. Quantity over quality. Let everything land on the page, judge later. When you do evaluate, weigh ideas on two things: influence and creative direction are the potential for unique execution. Sketch the chosen one into rough form.
Layout & Creation.
With the concept set, build the grid. Test compositions until one fits. Composition, typeface, color, hierarchy, proportion, negative space, and art direction all live here. Expect multiple passes.
Iteration.
Your first version will feel finished. It isn't ?! you're too close to see it. Step away, return with fresh eyes. Ask what's missing, what could be sharper. The thinking that happens in the gap is the work. Easy looking ideas usually take the longest to arrive.
Art Direction.
The polish phase, often rushed. Lock visual consistency, color, icons and type. Refine layout and presentation. Communicate the idea simply. Identify the channels and design for them.
Preworkout.
Idea quality reflects input quality. Most people skip this step. Stretch your mind by getting out, see, listen and interact. Build a stockpile before you sit down to make anything.
Ideation.
Gather without filter. Quantity over quality. Let everything land on the page, judge later. When you do evaluate, weigh ideas on two things: influence and creative direction are the potential for unique execution. Sketch the chosen one into rough form.
Layout & Creation.
With the concept set, build the grid. Test compositions until one fits. Composition, typeface, color, hierarchy, proportion, negative space, and art direction all live here. Expect multiple passes.
Iteration.
Your first version will feel finished. It isn't ?! you're too close to see it. Step away, return with fresh eyes. Ask what's missing, what could be sharper. The thinking that happens in the gap is the work. Easy looking ideas usually take the longest to arrive.
Art Direction.
The polish phase, often rushed. Lock visual consistency, color, icons and type. Refine layout and presentation. Communicate the idea simply. Identify the channels and design for them.
“Every visual creative work is a manifestation of the character of the designer, it’s a reflection of his knowledge, his ability and his mentality.”
Josef Muller-Brokmann
In the end, the creative process isn’t a myth or a mystery. It’s a framework. While talent may play a role, great work is driven more by a process, commitment, and patience.
Thanks ;)
“Every visual creative work is a manifestation of the character of the designer, it’s a reflection of his knowledge, his ability and his mentality.”
Josef Muller-Brokmann
In the end, the creative process isn’t a myth or a mystery. It’s a framework. While talent may play a role, great work is driven more by a process, commitment, and patience.
Thanks ;)
