How Design adds valueHow design adds value
A quick explanation on how Design is an investment
You may wonder why hire a designer? Is it worth the investment of time and money? What is important to understand about design is that it is practice that fills a need. Design solutions are engineered through the problem solving of an objective. This objective may be to communicate (education, persuasion / influence) or resolve a physical need (find a way to transport water, go faster). This is why design helps build value; it responds to and fulfills the needs of people and business.
What does hiring a designer really involve?
If the term "designer" makes you squeamish, consider this. Architects are designers of buildings. Engineers are designers of infrastructure. An accomplished, professional designer is a consultant who builds things like communication systems and products. Just as architects know how people will react to spaces, a good designer knows how people will respond to visual and tactile stimulii, such as color, shape, and composition. Designers can engineer communication and physical forms in ways that improves their operation. When you hire a designer you gain access to a richer way to enhance your offerings to your customers and clients. Employ the designer correctly and the effect can be transformative, bringing greater clarity and impact to your business.
Image is not everything
Unfortunately, some think design's value is only in aesthetic styling; in other words the designer's sole role is to "make it pretty". This is a common misperception. Great design is not just about what looks good. A professional designer is concerned with a myriad of issues when planning and executing a design, including matters of ergonomic function (human factors), emotional response (psychology), and economy (fabrication cost, transmission, action). A succcessful design process reflects this multi-faceted thinking about how your products communicate to help you achieve your business strategy goals.
Economic savings
Design brings value through economic savings. A professional designer can help you reduce the amount you spend by showing how you can save money by redesigning your products and communication materials as a system for greater efficiency. A systems-based approach through design planning and strategy can also translate into savings when it comes to production and maintenance by streamline and unifying efforts in a coordinated fashion.
Performance enhancement
Design brings value through enhancements in performance. Not only can designed products yield results through their look, they can also enhance the performance of your business by clarifying your organizational message and procedures. Better communication means better understanding.
Time savings
Design brings value through saved time. Providing support to your customers and clients can place a demand on your time and that of your staff. Designed products, such as signage and printed materials, can help to lessen the support staff load and improve your customer relations. The result is you look better and work faster without having to sweat as much.
Lack of design can be a hazard
Design can save lives. Clear, unabiguous communication is important where hazardous situations and environments are potentially involved. A professional designer can help you improve your position from a liability and code-compliance by designing attention-getting communication that clearly and unequivocally informs your clients and customers with important information and instructions. Their awareness and appreciation of potential hazards is key to their safety.
