No matter how much creative sparks a designer can produce, there are times when a designer can totally at lost even at their own professional field. A good communication is crucial to understand the requirement of the client and it is up to us, the designer, to present them to our client's prospectives in the most simplest yet informative way.
Having had direction from the clients, it allows the designer to get more ideas on how the information should be presented to the audience. The designer may have the knowledge and skills to produce great design but if couple with the marketing expertise of the clients, it can deliver something that will take your breath away!
I believe that most of the designers choose this profession because they like what they are currently doing. However, the egoistic part should not have taken its toll - that is being too self-center and believing that they are the greatest in everything they do. Do note that even the greatest person will also make mistakes and having someone to guide us will lessen such problem.
Therefore, as to say, it is always better to have a client who are willing to voice out their opinion, desire and expectation rather that letting the designer to decide everything on their own. Few years back when I just started as a Junior Designer, I had this experience where I have to come out with all the design and the client just keep rejecting it without saying anything much. When asked what was wrong with the design, I was backfired with the statement that I am the designer, not them. It was sad experience but I definitely learn a lot from it. Now and then, I always show my appreciation to my clients who are willing to share their opinion and expertise.
Listen is the key here. Always give opportunity to the client to talk. Some clients may feel uncomfortable to talk and that is when we need to go into their comfort zone and show our interest in their business. Let them know that we are here to help and solve their problem. We solve it by understanding their problem through listening, analyzing it and propose for a solution. The solution may not be the best at first but it will be further refined through collaboration between the designer and client.
What do you think? Do you feel that client's direction helps a lot in your project? Do let me know about it.
