Design process

Practical advice about design process, with practical ideas to try in your own work.

Practical advice drawn from real projects. Dates group the experience behind each guide; publication dates are shown separately.

10 guides to explore

Design process

Review one decision at a time, connect comments to the brief and record what changed so feedback produces a coherent next version.

Design process

Identify the elements that carry the visual identity, then remove competing detail while checking that the design still feels distinctive.

Motion & illustration

Separate the useful shapes, plan depth and materials, and judge the result from the final camera before polishing.

Motion & illustration

Think about the return to the beginning early, then inspect movement, textures and exported playback around the join.

Motion & illustration

Storyboard what the viewer sees before, during and after a scene transition so the animation serves the change of content.

Motion & illustration

Plan a small, distinct set of poses and expressions that stays recognisable during live use.

Motion & illustration

Start with a readable silhouette and expression, then check the artwork small before spending time on decorative detail.

Motion & illustration

Use clear status, restrained supporting information and a calm visual rhythm for a stream or presentation break screen.

Motion & illustration

Judge the uploaded result as well as the master export, especially around fine lines, dark detail and busy movement.

Motion & illustration

Use a repeatable scene with simple objects and lighting to judge a material before adding it to a more complicated animation.

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