In every client-designer relationship, there are always revisions to be made with designs. In most instances, the client is not 100% satisfied with a design right off the bat. Revisions are a dance between designer and client; no one wants to step on toes and neither party wants to question the other’s ideas. It usually takes a couple tries to hit the mark, but that’s to be expected. There are a few a tips that could help limit the number of requested revisions and improve your relationship.

Clients rarely know the realm of capabilities of programs like Photoshop and Illustrator - otherwise, they would have done the project themselves. The designer needs to keep this in the front of their mind. A project’s depth and creative investment reflects on time frame and budget, and the designer’s knowledge and experience within these programs. This is always the place to start a discussion to avoid confusion down the road.

Noticing the distinction between what the client personally likes versus what will be successful is the job of the designer. Most clients like what they’re used to seeing, and not necessarily what will make the project successful or yield the best results in the eye of the consumer. A level of trust is necessary between a client and the designer. The client should be respected as the most knowledgeable of their industry, business, and demographic, and the designer should be respected as the most experienced in their industry and business, and what will produce the best consumer reactions as a result of their experience.

Having a good relationship with your client or your designer will help create the best work with the least amount of revisions. Make sure to be honest about your expectations, capabilities, and opinions from the get-go. As a client, don’t be afraid to share your honest thoughts about a design - it’s the designer’s job to create something that will fit with your brand, so you won’t be hurting their feelings! And as a designer, it is important to know when you should share your professional expertise and what you know will produce the best results, even though it may be different than a client’s personal preferences.

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