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Constructive Criticism and your Graphic Designer

Posted on July 23rd, 2008, 08:07 am
Filed Under (Graphic Design) by Ed C

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Criticism and critiquing are fine art forms, when properly executed. They can be some of the most beneficial elements used when your graphic designer is creating your logo. Criticism and critique used in the wrong way can also be your project’s greatest detriment.

The most important thing to remember is that criticism in itself is a relative term; something you find unappealing may be another person’s masterpiece. A key point one should always keep in mind when relaying your thoughts, whether good or bad, must always stay positive. Think to yourself, “If I had spent 2 days working on a design would I want someone to flat out say that it was horrible? Probably not.

However, you probably wondering, “How do I give constructive criticism without rewarding uninspired work or giving unstructured, critiques that my designer doesn’t take seriously? The answer is a perfectly administered critique structure.

A good critique structure is essential to getting product you have envisioned:

•Always start out on a positive note: This is key. Remember there is no such thing as “bad art” its all subjective and opinion based. Use phrases such as “That’s a good start”, “I see what you tried to do here”, “This is good work”,

•Presenting negative points: Chances are you aren’t the first person to give an artist a negative comment. This is the point of constructive critiquing; one’s art cannot improve without assessment. Negative is “negative” there is no way around it, however, do it in a positive way. Avoid words like “ugly,” “horrible,” “bad,” “worst.”

•Be honest and direct: If you don’t like something say so, but being polite and professional is never a bad thing.

•Make it a team effort: Use phrases like “We need to take a look…” “What we should do is…” Making your designer feel like he is working with you rather than trying to satisfy you, will bring a better relationship and in turn a better product.

•Give at least one positive point: Even if you don’t like your designer’s attempt try to find a good aspect. Build the artist up. It never hurts to complement someone on their efforts. Bring out and reinforce the artist’s strong areas.

•Always end your conversations with a positive note: “This draft was good, Keep up the great work”, Thank you for your efforts” these will bring confidence to your designer, and with confidence comes better work.

•Rapport: A businesslike yet casual relationship will do wonders for a project. Keep the human element involved, and the results will follow.

Stick to these basic principles  and you and your designer will reap the benefits of awesome graphic design.

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