When we start working on a new project, every detail matters. Sometimes the ones you wouldn't think to tell us. But don't worry - we'll ask every question necessary. What can you expect? What should you prepare for a meeting with an UI designer? We've prepared a short guide presented by Justyna Kapinos, our Lead UI/UX Designer. So, discover the 5 steps to your perfect UI design.
I always start by getting to know the client and their business as well as possible. Of course, nobody knows this better than the client himself, which is why a detailed brief is so important in the whole process. I like to think of implementing a project as a journey that is worth preparing for. We should work out together the route, the possible unexpected events and, most of all, its destination. Why do you need us and how do we support you on this journey?
At this stage, I want to learn as much as possible about the environment in which business operates. What makes it different? What obstacles does it face in achieving its goals? What does the competitive environment look like? I also ask about the specifics of the language of communication. And most importantly: what the needs of product users are to be satisfied. All this is extremely important before I start working on the UI design.
All the stuffs with a target audience and their needs can be hard to define. That's why I like to use this comparison when I talk to clients about it: you mustn't feed salt products to swans in winter, whereas salt licks for deer are advisable. You need to know what they expect. In fact, it is not you who is supposed to like the way of communication, but your target group. The product must be understandable and intuitive to its users. In the offices, you can come up with the craziest and most creative solutions - there is always the only question whether they will be appropriate for the people who are supposed to use them. So, together we need to find a balance between you and your target audience preferences.
Well then, it's time to have a serious conversation about what you absolutely do not like. In an UI design project, I need to know what I'm supposed to be addressing, what's within the client's scope of interest, and what's off the charts. If you come to me with a mood board, it's the perfect situation to start a conversation about the design that will make the product unique. It's also common for a company to have products that already work. I always want to see them to get a feel for the preferred aesthetic and how a position in the market is built like. Of course, if you don't have all those things at this stage, no problem, we can help you find some inspiration (you can read more about it here)
We need to know which beast from our team will best suit your working style and project scope.Of course, the schedule is equally important. I also always ask the client about his working style: are they a morning bird or rather a night owl? This information helps me structure my communication about the project, and I know the client's availability and how quickly they will be able to respond. All these details discussed at the very beginning of work on a new digital product project are, in my opinion, essential for it to run smoothly.
We hope you find our expert's advice useful when working on your next project. If you're looking for a great team to make it happen - be sure to let us know.