Why why why!?

The number 1 question we ask as graphic designers is "why." If you are in the design field and you don't use this word often you may want to revamp your tactics. The building blocks to great design is built around information. Successful design solves problems constantly and consistently conveys that outcome in a visual presentation.

The reason we ask why.

Literally almost every statement a client makes when explaining what they want their design to look like can end with the designer asking, "why?" Don't get me wrong. Don't be rude about it but in a professional way cater the question to the project to gain the big picture. Even more so, we ask it to ourselves. The reason behind this is that when we ask questions, we build a solid base of why a design exists, what it's for, and all the small building blocks thereafter that make it feasible and affective. It's almost equivalent to slapping various shapes on a canvas versus sentences. Shapes are more visual and interpretive whereas words are informative and direct.

When asking why in the overall context of a project, we will create more captivating and solid distinguishable work. Don't just slap some baloney against a wall and walk away.

Everything has a reason.

As an effective designer we should know that everything we do has a reason or purpose. Being creative and making things look good is all fine and dandy but, we should always have reasoning behind WHY it is the way it is visually and logically. This sets the amateurs apart from the pros and everybody wants to be a pro bro!

Think about...

Why am I using this typeface? 

Is it more legible with the current design? Does the style match the client, audience, or project?

Why is the project this size? 

Is it affordable or within budget? Is it logical for the situation at hand? Does it need to be that size? Is it too small or too large?

Why were these colors chosen? 

Are they representative of the client? Are they feasible in the specification of the project? Do they work with the design direction?

Why are these elements placed there? 

Are they aligned to something? Are they breaking the grid for a unique design aesthetic? Are they placed in order to lead the viewer to see something a certain way?

The examples can go on and on. The more we know, the better reasoning for the design and the more effective it will be. One of our favorite quotes at Picsul is,

Have reason for your design implementation and know why it's done that why. Be not only a creative, but a smart creative!

Cheers,

-Picsul