You're struggling to convey complex design ideas. How can you ensure your non-design colleagues understand?
To effectively share complex design ideas with colleagues who aren't designers, focus on clarity and relatability. Here's how to make your concepts accessible:
- Use visual aids like sketches or diagrams to make abstract ideas concrete.
- Break down jargon by explaining terms and processes in simple language.
- Relate design elements to familiar objects or experiences to help others visualize the concept.
How do you demystify design for those outside the field? Feel free to share your approaches.
You're struggling to convey complex design ideas. How can you ensure your non-design colleagues understand?
To effectively share complex design ideas with colleagues who aren't designers, focus on clarity and relatability. Here's how to make your concepts accessible:
- Use visual aids like sketches or diagrams to make abstract ideas concrete.
- Break down jargon by explaining terms and processes in simple language.
- Relate design elements to familiar objects or experiences to help others visualize the concept.
How do you demystify design for those outside the field? Feel free to share your approaches.
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Design language can be tough to translate for the uninitiated. Rather than dispense with it altogether (at peril of loosing precision or credibility among the other creatives), ease your non-design stakeholders into greater faculty with using design-specific terms. Here's how: 1_ Don't load in on. Use design-specific language (so called "jargon") when you need to communicate a technical element for which there is no great alternative. 2_ Unpack it. When do have to use a technical term, add a quick description of what it means. 3_ Compare it. Share examples of where the treatment or technique has been used, especially if they are well know. 4_ Contrast it. Share examples of the opposite or a different treatment. More examples is better.
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I like to use visuals to help. Diagrams, sketches, or even quick mock-ups can make ideas clearer. It’s like showing a sneak peek instead of just telling the story.
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Break it down for them like they're a kid. Not in condescending tone, but in simplified vocabulary and easy to understand examples. Most of the design concepts I use are easily understood when explained. If it's too hard to explain with words, try using a white board or notepad. Visual thinkers can usually communicate through pictures. Remember that great idea on a cocktail napkin? Sketch it out if necessary.
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