Getting the Perfect Website: How to Brief Your Designer Without the Guesswork

How To Brief Your Web Designer

Written by JR Digital Design

October 30, 2024

If you’ve ever found yourself saying things like, “Make it pop!” or “I’ll know it when I see it,” you’re not alone! But here’s the thing – these phrases are more likely to make your designer scratch their head than spark creativity.

Don’t worry; I get it. Knowing exactly what you want (and how to communicate it) can be challenging. That’s why I’m here to break down the art of the perfect designer brief – making it easier for you to get exactly what you want and for us to make it happen. Let’s dive in!…

Step 1: Start with Your Audience

Who’s this website for? Instead of saying, “I want it to look cool,” think about who will visit your site. Are they tech-savvy millennials? Busy moms? Entrepreneurs? Knowing your target audience will help shape the website’s style and tone. A designer can work magic with audience insights!

Pro Tip: Share specific details, like “My audience is entrepreneurs in their 30s looking for quick, impactful advice.”

Step 2: Be Real with Your Vision

The best web design isn’t about “just a vibe”; it’s about purpose. Imagine how you want visitors to feel and act on your site. Do you want them to sign up, feel inspired, or maybe explore your offerings? By giving your designer a feel for the action and emotion you want to inspire, they can create a visual experience to match. More on this and my upcoming Mailerlite workshop in my next newsletter!

Step 3: Colors and Fonts? Yes, They Matter!

Here’s a fun one: Color and font choices aren’t just preferences – they’re about brand personality! If you’re unsure, start by telling your designer how you want your brand to feel. Is it bold and energetic? Calm and sophisticated? Sharing websites you admire or pointing out specific colors that resonate with you helps a ton.

Pro Tip: Avoid Comic Sans. Just… trust me on this one.

Step 4: Bring Examples You Like

Designers love examples. It’s like giving us a map to your happy place! Websites, color palettes, layouts – anything visual that catches your eye can serve as an inspiration guide. Just remember, it’s not about copying; it’s about capturing that spark of inspiration and making it uniquely yours.

Step 5: Streamline Feedback

You might think, “A little tweak here, one more tweak there…” but soon you’re knee-deep in revision overload! To keep the process smooth, gather feedback all at once and communicate changes clearly. This saves time, money, and sanity for both you and your designer. Trust me, your dream website is just around the corner!

Ready to build your dream site?

With these tips, you’re well on your way to making it happen – without the “make it pop!” confusion. When you’re ready for the next step, I’m here to help bring your vision to life, loud and clear.