Here's how you can give effective feedback on design concepts to your team and colleagues.

1 Be Specific

When providing feedback on design concepts, specificity is key. Avoid vague statements that can be interpreted in multiple ways. Instead, focus on particular elements of the design that you believe need improvement. For example, if you're reviewing architectural plans, rather than saying "This doesn't look right," point out that "The north-facing facade could benefit from more windows to enhance natural lighting." This clarity helps your team understand exactly what you're referring to and why it may be an issue.

2 Use Positivity

Positive reinforcement goes a long way in maintaining a team's morale. Start your feedback with what you like about the design concept before delving into areas that need refinement. This 'sandwich' approach—positive feedback, followed by constructive criticism, and ending with positive comments—encourages a receptive atmosphere. Remember, your goal is to improve the design, not to diminish the designer's confidence.

3 Encourage Dialogue

Feedback should be a two-way conversation , not a monologue. After sharing your thoughts, encourage your colleagues to respond with their perspectives or clarifications. This dialogue can lead to a deeper understanding of the design choices and foster a collaborative environment. Ask open-ended questions like "What was the inspiration behind this feature?" to initiate an exchange of ideas.

4 Suggest Solutions

While identifying issues is important, offering solutions or alternatives can be even more valuable. If you think a design element doesn't work, suggest a possible fix or a different approach. For example, "If we adjust the layout of the lobby, we might improve foot traffic flow." By being solution-oriented, you demonstrate a constructive mindset and a commitment to the project's success.

5 Respect Expertise

Acknowledge the expertise of your colleagues. Design is a complex field with many specializations, and each member of your team brings unique skills and knowledge to the table. When giving feedback, respect their professional judgment and experience. Frame your feedback in a way that recognizes their contributions and opens up for their input on your suggestions.

6 Follow Up

After giving feedback, it's essential to follow up on the points discussed . This shows that you are invested in the development of the design concept and are willing to see changes through. Following up also provides an opportunity to see how your feedback was incorporated and to offer further assistance if necessary. It reinforces the collaborative nature of building design and the importance of ongoing communication.

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?