The Graphic Design Process
Designing and developing any graphic is a process that can take days or weeks depending on the nature of the project, the complexity of design, client deadlines and workflow. The outline provided below is a basic guideline intended to help you know what to expect when developing a "typical" graphic project. Your specific project may require something different, but the basics of the design process are outlined below.
Your review and approval will be required at each phase of design and/or development.
Inquiry | Planning | Design | Revision | Approval | Production | Delivery
Inquiry
The inquiry phase allows us to develop an understanding of the purpose and goals of the art project as well as the personality and tone desired. In graphic design, this may involve phone conferences, emails, and a meeting to establish expectations, parameters and goals. Your preferences, purpose, audience, existing branding and goals are of great importance here. We may make recommendations at this point, or just gather information to work on a preliminary proposal. Art Direction will be provided as needed throughout the entire process.
Planning
After obtaining a working knowledge of the objectives of the project and any preferences or demographics you may be able to provide, we take the information provided and put it to work with our experience and expertise to develop a plan for your project. Message, tone and personality, colors, branding, application/production, audience, fonts, research, content and many more variables are weighed to determine an appropriate design plan.
Design Time
Sketches and/or artwork are prepared for your review. Everything gathered and evaluated up to this point is now strategically placed in layout sketches. Depending on how specific your information and requirements are, multiple versions of the proposed project art are prepared. This will provide you with more than one option for review and input. Corporate identity, brand consistency and the integration of existing marketing materials are coordinated as needed. Proof sheets are digitally supplied for your review and input.*
Revision
Once design proofs are provided, you have the opportunity to critique and request revisions. You can "mix and match" - replace - refine - we're working together to reach the final goal, so your critical feedback is essential. Based on the terms of your project contract, there are limitations on the number of revisions provided for free. We work with you to ensure your satisfaction.* As a matter of fact, we want you to be extremely delighted with your artwork!
Approval
Once revisions are completed and you are satisfied with the design, placement of content, and all aspects of the project, a final proof is issued for your approval prior to production. The artwork and any text involved will have been proofed by our office, but it is very important that you re-check all type, including phone numbers, names, dates, and any other contact information. Final responsibility for content accuracy for printed materials rests on your approval of this final proof - so check it carefully!
Production
Once final art is approved, all protective watermarks and features are removed and it is sent to production. The location of production and the equipment utilized will vary by project, as we match the specifications of the job to the production process that best suits it. If you have a particular company that you wish to use for production, please notify us at the beginning of the project so that the proper specifications may be met for production.
Delivery
The work is done, and now the beautiful product arrives! Upon final payment, all final artwork is delivered in agreed upon forms and formats, without protective watermarks or other protective features. This may be digital, hard-copy or both. From this point on, it is treated as the property of the client.** Congratulations! You have just obtained your own original art!
*Standard Contract Terms apply.
BHD retains the right to display samples of any works created in digital
and/or print portfolios and galleries as it deems appropriate.