Preserved Topic: brainstorming

I have been designing websites for 1 1/2 years and currently beginning work on my fourth client. I am having designers block and would like some help. I have nothing designed as of yet, so I cannot show you my progress.

My question is this: how do some of you begin the design process? Does it start with a pencil sketch? Do you come straight to the Asylum and seek others advice?

I think your replies would really help me.

Thanks.
Chris

First I learn about the company for which I am designing. From there, I sketch out (in pen) a few ideas that embody the company. Then I go back to the company and pull out more stuff from them (printed materials, business highlights, etc) and integrate them into the design. THEN I sit down in front of the machine and pound out designs, with the sketches right next to me. Generally, that's enough.

Edit: Dammit! twitch types faster than I!

[This message has been edited by Dracusis (edited 07-09-2001).]

cool thanks.

Long standing businesses tend to be a snap because they normally have their logo's as well as a design style established, you job is then to embody what is there, and make it navigatable, and get their information out to their potensial clients in an easy to understand way.

I have to determine how the navigation is going to be before I do anything else. That kinda dictates a lot to me. If they only have a couple of main items for nav, then I can get away with doing some things that might not work if I have to have a fairly complex navigation.

I usually have a bunch of "pool" designs. When I get a client, I see if they will fit into any of the existing designs.

Also, since we do a lot of public safety related stuff, we look at a lot of other related sites to see how they're doing things. That has REALLY helped.

I draw an outline in the sand and go from there.

I'll take this opportunity to recommend a really good book that's changed the way I approach clients and projects, Creativity for Graphic Designers by Mark Oldach. Pick it up, you won't be sorry. i also think this month's HOW magazine was about creativity...

Chris

KAIROSinteractive

But krets, what do you draw the outline with??

Come on now, don't skimp out on the details!

Dam cheap skate!

drac - you know how fond of being naked krets is, right?

I don't need to elaborate........do I.....?




?Consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative? -- Oscar Wilde

Thanks everyone, its nice to get an inside scoop on how many different angles one can take in starting the design process. I will print this post out and keep it for future reference. Fig, $15 for that book sounds like a bargain, and if its as good as you say then its a steal!

Thanks kids.
C -:: R :: O ::- 8