When I’m asked to create a look and feel for a project, the first thing I do is come-up with a top level framework that solves all the design problems. The framework is the UI that surrounds the content and helps to perform actions and navigate through it. I ask questions, I devise multiple scenarios and include the development team for a sound framework. If you approach your design from this perspective you will have a clear understanding of what your layout needs will be when designing occurring sections.
Design is about solving problems and those problems can’t be resolved through gradients or shadows but through a good layout and a clear hierarchy. Think about the content, the layout and the functionality before starting the design. Lastly, obsess over the design.
If you are passionate about design I’m sure this is something you are doing. Whenever I finish a comp I feel proud of, I tend to make that comp a part of my life. I take screenshots of it, check it out it different devices, make wallpapers of it and even print it and hang it on the wall.
Throughout this process I get to a point where I finally end up hating it; I start seeing everything that’s wrong with it and eventually I change it. Disliking your previous work is sign of maturity, and it means that you are finally learning from your own mistakes.
I have found this process to be extremely successful. My solutions are well-thought out, collaborative, logical and solve the visual problem.
Janine Risk is a Creative Director that resides in Detroit, Michigan and can be contacted at janinerisk@mac.com
