How do you use client and user input in your design specs?

1 Understand the project goals

Before you start drafting your design specs, you need to understand the project goals and objectives. What is the purpose and function of the space? Who are the target users and what are their needs and expectations? How do you align your design with the client's brand identity, budget, and timeline? You can gather this information by conducting interviews, surveys, workshops, or focus groups with your client and potential users. You can also review existing data, such as site plans, floor plans, codes, standards, and regulations.

2 Define the design criteria

Based on the project goals and user input, you need to define the design criteria for your project. These are the measurable and specific requirements that guide your design decisions. For example, you might have design criteria for the spatial layout, the circulation, the lighting, the acoustics, the ergonomics, the sustainability, or the aesthetics of the space. You can use tools such as mood boards, sketches, diagrams, or models to illustrate your design criteria and get feedback from your client and users.

3 Select the design elements

Once you have established your design criteria, you need to select the design elements that will make up your design specs. These are the tangible and intangible components that create the look and feel of the space. For example, you might have design elements such as colors, textures, patterns, materials, finishes, furniture, fixtures, artwork, or accessories. You can use tools such as samples, swatches, catalogs, or renderings to show your design elements and get approval from your client and users.

4 Write the design specifications

After you have chosen your design elements, you need to write the design specifications that detail how they will be implemented in the space. These are the written instructions that specify the quantity, quality, size, shape, location, and installation of your design elements. You can use tools such as schedules, drawings, plans, elevations, sections, details, or notes to document your design specifications and ensure accuracy and consistency.

5 Review and revise the design specs

Before you finalize your design specs, you need to review and revise them to make sure they meet the project goals and user input. You can use tools such as checklists, reviews, or audits to verify that your design specs are complete, clear, correct, and compliant. You can also use tools such as mock-ups, prototypes, or tests to evaluate how your design specs perform in the real world. You can involve your client and users in this process and solicit their feedback and suggestions.

6 Communicate and deliver the design specs

Finally, you need to communicate and deliver your design specs to the relevant parties involved in your project. You can use tools such as reports, presentations, or meetings to explain your design specs and how they address the client and user input. You can also use tools such as contracts, agreements, or invoices to formalize your design specs and their terms and conditions. You can follow up with your client and users and monitor the progress and outcome of your project.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?