brand process

Tried. Tested. Transparent.

Ask questions to trigger the imagination. Identify opportunities. Stay curious throughout the branding process.

Process overview

The Story

Share your story. Conversation to set the scene and for me to understand the scope of the design project.

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The Spark

Time to let creativity flow. I strive to explore all the possibilities based upon your design brief to tell your story.

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The Solution

Going above and beyond. Delivering tangible solutions that supersede client expectations, on time and on budget.

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Seven steps to success

1. Briefing

Before I start the research phase of any design project, we should have a conversation outlining the scope of the work. I need to unpack your business strategy. Uncover your aims and objectives. Understand your target audience. I will keep an open mind and listen carefully to your aspirations, I’m curious enough to spot the creative clues. Pluck out the main plot lines. I’m not the expert on your company, you are. Clear communication starts here.

Brief writing video

2. Discovery

Based on your design brief and the outcomes of our conversation, I can start the research ball rolling. Research takes me beneath the surface, in-between the lines and behind the scenes. Research can be revealing and sometimes revolutionary. I won’t be afraid to question the design brief. During this stage I will also check any technical information and source competitive print quotes if required.

3. Brainstorm

With design brief in hand I begin by sketching ideas, sourcing photography, sampling colour palettes and testing typefaces. Brewing up concepts is the most time-intensive stages of the design process. Much of the budget will be invested in this crucial stage. I strive to explore all the possibilities, watching as a blank canvas (screen) comes to life. If the conditions are right, an idea comes kicking and screaming into the world. Towels at the ready!

4. Design

I deliberately allow some space and time in the schedule, between initial concepts and the designs that will be developed and presented. The calm after the (brain) storm. It is time to filter, finesse, and fine-tune the initial creative concepts into tangible design solutions. I translate the ideas into more digestible formats. Mocking-up products, applying branding to various marketing materials, placing digital designs onto screens - giving them a sense of purpose and of belonging. A natural environment in which they can thrive.

5. Present

Time for the big reveal. The art of the presentation. The aim is to articulate my design solutions clearly to all stakeholders. Face to face is my preferred way to present, to gauge reactions in the room but of course it isn’t always possible to be in the same physical space as the client. Alternatively, I can provide annotated PDF files or comprehensive emails explaining my design work. We can always follow-up with a Skype, Zoom or WhatsApp call.I craft a visual vocabulary around the presented design solutions, helping clients to understand the creative direction.

6. Feedback

Creative types are passionate (and sensitive) about our design work but honest feedback is an integral part of any successful design project. The first question you will undoubtedly ask yourself - does the design work presented meet my brief? Does it resonate with my brand? Does it tick the right boxes? Try to be as specific as possible. I will listen intently and take your insights onboard. This is my opportunity to ensure you are completely satisfied with the creative work. I will ask you to clarify anything I am unclear on, to allow me to implement your feedback accurately.

7. Deliver

I will develop the chosen design to your desired taste, stirring elements around to make the message even stronger. I include three rounds of amends (industry standard) with most design projects, if needed we can agree more flexibility at the start of the project. With the first round of amends is generally the most extensive. Once the design has been 100% approved by the client, it is time to produce the artwork files. Attention to detail and a sound technical knowledge are of paramount importance at this final stage. Clear communication between client, designer and developer (or printer) is vital to avoid any last minute hitches.

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Process Explained

Before you embark on your branding journey, take a few minutes to understand the creative process. Addressing this challenge is akin to untying the Gordian Knot – initially appearing insurmountable. So, how do we resolve this tension, you ask? It begins with asking the million-dollar question, marking the starting point for climate action. The answer lies in embracing audacious and innovative solutions that have the power to cut through this seemingly unsolvable dilemma.

Define: In the initial phase of the branding process, we work closely with our clients to define their unique identity and purpose. We delve deep into your brand’s core values, mission, and vision. This stage involves a comprehensive analysis of your target audience, market competition, and industry trends. By understanding the essence of your business, we can create a solid foundation for a successful branding strategy.
Discover: Once we have a clear definition of your brand, we embark on a journey of discovery. This stage involves extensive research and market analysis. We explore your audience’s behaviors, preferences, and pain points. We identify opportunities and gaps in the market to position your brand effectively. Through this process, we uncover insights that inform the creative direction and messaging of your brand.
Design: With insights from the discovery phase, our creative team takes the reins to design a compelling brand identity. We craft a visually appealing and memorable logo, select a color palette, and establish typography guidelines that resonate with your brand’s personality. Our goal is to create a cohesive and consistent brand identity that leaves a lasting impression on your audience.
Deliver: The final phase is all about bringing your brand to life. We create a comprehensive branding strategy that includes marketing collateral, digital assets, and guidelines for consistent brand representation. From website design to social media campaigns, we ensure that your brand is presented cohesively across all touchpoints. This stage also includes ongoing monitoring and adjustments to ensure that your brand evolves with changing market dynamics while maintaining its core essence. At every step, our aim is to deliver a brand that not only stands out but also builds trust and loyalty with your target audience.

Brief overiew / outline of our design and branding process, see ‘process’ page for full details / deep dive…

1. Discover

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2. Design

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3. Deliver

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4. Disrupt

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Branding considerations

Be attractive

The aesthetics of a product are integral to their usefulness because products that you use every day have an effect on your well-being. That means the more you look at something, the more of an impact it has on your senses.

Be consistent

Employ a consistent format and design throughout all your branded materials. With a consistent style rolled out across all printed and digital collateral, your customers are able to instantly recognise you in a crowded marketplace.

Be curious

Your branding should ignite your audience's curiosity. We all have a ingrained natural curiosity to ask questions. Find your confidence to start questioning again. Keep asking why - until you have all the answers to unlock new growth in your business.

Be honest

If your visitor has the wrong impression of what your content is trying to tell them, your design isn’t being honest enough. Your design needs to communicate your brand’s story with authenticity and integrity. No tricks required here!

Be meticulous

Just because your design is simple, doesn’t mean you can overlook the details. In a minimal design where most of your design is white space, there are few places to ‘hide’ bad composition or a poor typeface choice. Ensure artwork is precise.

Be neutral

Check your bias and attempt to achieve fairness. This doesn’t mean your design has to be completely devoid of personality. The number one goal of graphic and web design is to present content in balanced and clutter free surroundings.

Be ruthless

If a graphic element or passage of text in a piece of work distracts from the key message or confuses the audience, consider removing it. White space is crucial to a successful design. It allows the eyes to rest, so the mind can start to think. Don’t be afraid of empty space!

Be timeless

Steer clear of current fads and trends which can harm longevity - if something feels like a trend, it probably is! A classic design should evolve naturally over time, be adaptable and have the ability to speak to both present and future audiences.

Be understood

Good design doesn’t need to be explained. You know this, even if you’ve never consciously thought about it before. Think of all the products you use on a daily basis, I bet you didn’t have to read a manual to learn how to use them?

brand process

Tried. Tested. Transparent.

Process overview

The Story

The Spark

The Solution

Seven steps to success

Process Explained