Studio Brief 1 - Design Process

The design process is like a never ending circle, going back one step or forward, none of the stages should be made redundant until the brief is finished. For example the research or the feedback aspect of the process should never end till the the final day. The process is effectively there to help the concept of an idea development into a successful end. The designer could be at a development stage into their brief, which they could be struggling with some ideas but they can always take a step backwards along the line and go back to research and the same with research, if their stuck then go backwards and re-read the brief. The circle never ends, throughout any creative industry the process is relatively the same; the only change is personal.

Below I have stated each stage of the design process that i personally find myself following when I'm designing at uni and also when i freelance.

Brief:

The brief is an essential part and is the first part of the design process that every designer will see. It's where the ideas first flow along with becoming aware of what is required of you. Questions on the line of, what are they asking of me? What needs to be created? What are the restrictions? Will instantly pop into your head as you try your hardest to understand the brief fully. These are all the questions, which as a designer needs a lot of thought. 

Research:

Research is the process where as inspiration & knowledge mixes together to create unique contemporary designs. Research is constant and never stops, it should be with you until the end to make sure you are up to date on all trends. You can then enhance your research techniques but conducting primary research, doing surveys or even conduct a feedback session with the public.

Initial Ideas 

Initial ideas is where you can start putting all your research and talents onto paper, sketching and experimenting are all ways to start getting your ideas onto paper. Once your ideas are onto paper you can be more critically aware of your concept and to see if your ideas are fitting the briefs requirements.

Development:

Development has no hierarchy within the design process. Development lasts from the time you read the brief till the day of hand in. Development is the most important part of the creative circle; it shows of your ability as a designer as it demonstrates how you got from A to B. In some circumstances it can be as important as the final creative because from your development you can always back tract and see if you have followed the brief and start to ask question about your concept and most importantly ask yourself why? Why have i done this? This will keep your mind ticking over to make sure you’re meeting the criteria of the brief.

Production:

Production mainly consists of mocking up the final resolution once final adjustments & constructive feedback has been implemented. The whole design process has led up to this final stage, so in retrospect the final resolution should be backed up by solid research, ideas, experimentation and further development. If this is evident then your final production should be successful.