Your client's design vision clashes with app functionality. How do you navigate this creative conflict?

To effectively manage a design conflict, start by thoroughly understanding the client's vision and objectives. Clearly communicate any technical limitations or concerns, ensuring the client understands how their design choices may impact functionality or user experience. Propose alternative solutions that balance design aesthetics with performance requirements, emphasizing the importance of a user-centered approach. Encourage collaboration through iterative reviews and prototypes to find a mutually agreeable solution, while maintaining professionalism and demonstrating a commitment to achieving the best outcome for the project.

When a client’s design vision clashes with app functionality, I first aim to understand both their goals and the technical constraints. I create a design that balances these aspects and then present an MVP that closely aligns with their vision while maintaining functionality. Afterward, I engage the client in a feedback loop, explaining the reasoning behind design choices and how they impact usability. Through this collaborative process, we can iteratively adjust the design to meet both aesthetic and functional needs, ensuring the final product is effective and satisfactory.

First of all i need to understand their vision and goals for their decision to make an application clash with functionality. Then i need to analyze the technical constraints. I will measure and prioritize a scale for that impact to UX and functionality that will be shown to educate my client about it, so a "Win win" solution will be clear for both aspect.

Most of the time, how a product looks doesn’t really matter if it’s bringing in millions. Take ChatGPT, for example—it’s got a super minimal, no-frills design, not aiming for any design awards. But it’s a different ballgame when you’re creating a special project for an event or something similar. In those cases, you’ve got to meet the client’s expectations because it’s a one-off deal, and whether or not they come back to you depends on how satisfied they are with your work.

I will explain to the client that while their desired design can be implemented easily, it may create difficulties for the user in properly utilizing the app's functionality. This, in turn, could hinder business growth. I understand their concept and provide alternative options of implementing client vision.

Real talk: keeping it 100 with your client is the move when design and functionality start beefing. Break down the tech stuff or UX rules that might clash with their vision, but don’t just talk—listen to what they’re saying, too. Hit them with examples of how certain design choices could mess with the app’s vibe or flow. A good convo can usually get you both on the same page, where their vision stays intact, and the app still works like a charm.

No cap, UX is the GOAT in app development. If a design choice is messing with how users get around the app, it’s gotta go. Let your client know that UX is what keeps people coming back—it’s the secret sauce to the app’s success. By putting UX first, you can help them make design choices that aren’t just pretty but actually make the app pop and perform.

When design and functionality start throwing hands, coming through with alternatives is the play. Show your client different design vibes that still hit right without killing the app’s usability. Pull up some mock-ups or prototypes to give them a feel for how these alternatives would work. This way, they can see how you can make their vision work without sacrificing how the app runs.

I would have done this: Nothing beats data, creat user testing with their way and your UX way and show the results. After that start a discussion and see if you see eye yo eye. Good luck.

In my experience, the majority of the time when this happens it's due to a lack of education. Explaining why and educating the clients will open the door for alternate solutions, compromise, and reevaluating goals. It all starts with educating the "how" and "why" it clashes.

Engage in Open Dialogue: Establish clear communication channels with the client to understand their design vision and the reasons behind their preferences. Educate on Technical Constraints: Sometimes, clients may not be aware of the technical limitations that certain design elements can impose. Prototype and Iterate: Before locking down on a final design, create prototypes that incorporate both the client’s vision and functional requirements. This approach allows for early testing and adjustments. Offer Alternative Solutions: Present alternative solutions that meet the design goals without compromising functionality.