My work process revolves around research, organisation, and systematic refinement, which helps me maintain efficiency and clarity throughout each project. Research is the cornerstone of my workflow, as it enables me to gain a deeper understanding of the subject and reduces the stress of design decision-making later on. I dedicate at least five hours to research at the beginning of each brief, and sometimes more, depending on the complexity of the task. While research is crucial, I do find it challenging to stay focused on this stage, as my natural inclination is to dive straight into design. However, I have learned that committing this time upfront alleviates design-related stress and ensures a more informed approach.
To keep my research organised and avoid feeling overwhelmed, I use a project book with sections dedicated to each module and task. This organization helps me track my thoughts and progress, making it easier to revisit concepts without missing critical insights. I use colour coding to priorities key findings, and I prefer breaking down information into bullet points rather than lengthy paragraphs, making the material easier to process and review.
Once the research phase is complete, I begin the design process with sketching. This step serves as a "brain dump," allowing me to quickly express my ideas in a low-pressure, informal way. Rough sketches help me move faster and avoid overthinking, which can slow down the process when working digitally. After sketching, I narrow down my ideas to the top three or five, depending on the volume, and refine them further in Illustrator. This iterative process of sketching, refining, and revisiting research has proven to be highly effective in improving my workflow. In the past, I would sometimes skip research or jump directly into design, leading to inconsistency and a lack of clarity. Without a solid foundation of research, my designs would often change direction, resulting in a disorganized final product. This “rush to finish” approach led to design blocks and a chaotic file structure. I have found that slowing down at the beginning and adhering to my structured workflow ensures more consistent, high-quality outcomes.
My workflow includes several tools that support this process. An ongoing subscription to Envarto Elements provides access to stock images, 3D models, fonts, and mockups, which I frequently use to bring ideas to life and overcome creative blocks. I also turn to Pinterest and design books for inspiration when I find myself stuck or in need of fresh ideas. Additionally, I use a to-do list on a whiteboard to stay organised across all modules. This visual organization helps me stay on top of deadlines and ensures that my mind remains focused and clear when working through my design process.
In summary, my efficient workflow relies on thorough research, structured sketching, iterative refinement, and the strategic use of tools. This approach allows me to stay organised, minimise distractions, and produce designs that align closely with the project brief.