Embarking on a journey to design a brand can be an exhilarating experience for designers. Yet, without a well-structured process, it can quickly turn into an overwhelming and stressful endeavor. In this video, I’ll unveil my precise step-by-step process for creating a brand that not only saves time and minimizes stress but also sets you on the path to success.
The Inquiry Stage
The journey begins when a potential client submits an inquiry via my website’s form. This initial stage is all about gathering essential project details, including budget and required services. It’s also the moment when I evaluate whether our design styles align. If there’s a synergy, I move forward by responding to the inquiry, confirming the project’s scope, and seeking additional insights into their business.
Brand Proposal
With project details clarified, it’s time to craft a brand proposal. I use a template to create a comprehensive 12-page document that outlines project objectives, my design process, deliverables, timelines, costs, and the next steps. This document not only saves time but also presents information in a clear and professional manner, impressing potential clients.
Onboarding the Client
Upon the client’s approval of the proposal, I set up a project management system like Notion, creating a centralized hub for all project-related information. This includes contracts, invoices, design presentations, and more. Additionally, I secure an upfront payment of 50% of the project cost, ensuring the client’s commitment.
Brand Strategy and Creative Direction
Before diving into design, it’s crucial to understand the client’s business thoroughly. I achieve this by having the client complete a comprehensive discovery questionnaire. A video call follows to delve deeper into their target audience, business goals, and brand direction. This information lays the foundation for the creative process.
Logo Design
Armed with insights from the discovery phase, I proceed to design the brand’s visual identity. This encompasses the primary logo, secondary logo, logo mark, color palette, typography, brand assets, and patterns. I adopt the one-concept method, focusing on one well-rounded concept rather than multiple options. This approach often results in fewer revisions and greater client clarity.
Brand Presentation
To present the proposed brand identity, I created a detailed presentation of approximately 20-24 pages. This presentation showcases the full logo suite, provides in-depth explanations of design choices, and introduces brand typography, assets, and photography direction. It also features mockups to illustrate the brand in action, conveying my thought process and decision-making.
Feedback and Revision
After presenting the brand identity, I allow the client three working days to provide clear feedback. Clients are entitled to two revisions, ensuring ample opportunity to refine the design. This step is crucial for aligning expectations and minimizing revisions down the line.
Touchpoints
With the brand identity approved, I move on to creating additional touchpoints, such as product packaging, stationery, or social media templates. These extras are designed to enhance the brand’s presence across various platforms.
Feedback, Revisions & Sign-Off
The client reviews the additional touchpoints and provides feedback for one revision. Once revisions are complete, and the client is satisfied, we proceed to the final stage.
Off-boarding and Packaging Upf
The project is officially signed off upon payment of the remaining 50% of the project cost. At this point, I compile all brand files, export logos, and create a brand guideline document. These resources are uploaded to the project’s Notion portal for the client’s access, along with a farewell packet containing helpful information, tips, and opportunities for future collaboration.
In conclusion, a well-defined and organized design process is the backbone of a successful branding project. It saves time, reduces stress, and fosters client trust. By following these ten stages, designers can not only streamline their workflow but also ensure a seamless and rewarding brand design experience. If you’d like a more detailed breakdown of this process, don’t hesitate to let me know in the comments below. And if you found this video helpful, be sure to give it a thumbs up and subscribe for more valuable insights. Happy branding!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the first step in brand design?
Begin with a client consultation to define goals and values.
How do I choose the right color palette?
Select colors that align with the brand’s personality and message
What role does a logo play in branding?
A logo serves as a visual identity, making your brand memorable
How can I ensure brand consistency?
Create brand guidelines to maintain uniformity across all assets
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